Background Screening
(ADD) University policy (rev. 06/24) authorizes MU Extension to request a background check for volunteer applicants (including trainees) and existing volunteers, regardless of their intended role or involvement with youth programs, prior to accepting or retaining the individual(s) as an approved MU Extension volunteer. The background check may include, but is not limited to, criminal and other public records subject to any limitations imposed by applicable federal and state law. Certain disqualifying convictions or knowledge of pending criminal charges may be reason to delay or withhold acceptance of applicants and may lead to suspension or removal from the program for current volunteers.
Attention Master Gardeners who work with youth
If you are a Master Gardener involved with a youth gardening program such as Garden ’n Grow, Missouri state law requires that you must undergo a background check first.
Read the background screening disclosure statement below, then click the "GO TO STERLING VOLUNTEERS" button at the bottom of the page to begin the screening request process.
Disclosure regarding volunteer background report
University of Missouri Extension may obtain from Sterling Volunteers a background screening (“REPORT”) that contains background information about you in connection with your Master Gardener volunteer application. If you are accepted into a Master Gardener volunteer position, to the extent permitted by law, the MU Extension Director of Volunteer and Risk Management may obtain from Sterling Volunteers further reports through periodic rescreening during your time as a Master Gardener volunteer without providing further disclosure or obtaining additional consent.The REPORT may include, but is not limited to, criminal and other public records subject to any limitations imposed by applicable federal and state law. This information may be obtained from public records including government agencies and judicial records.
If you give consent to have a background screening conducted, press the “Go to Sterling Volunteers” button below to begin the process.