Background Screening
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 Naturalists who plan to work with youth
If you are a Master Naturalist volunteer working with partners on a project in which you will directly supervise youth, Missouri state law requires that you must undergo a background check screening first.
Please read the background check screening disclosure statement below and then select the "Go To Sterling Volunteers" button at the bottom of the page to begin the screening request process.
(opens in new window)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 Naturalist volunteer training application or with current Master Naturalist volunteers that intend to work with youth. If you are Master Naturalist volunteer that is working with youth, 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 Naturalist 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, select the “Go to Sterling Volunteers” button below to begin the process.