How Nonprofits Can Navigate Background Screening for Justice-Involved Individuals [Guide]

Nonprofit organizations that serve justice-involved individuals play a vital role in rehabilitation, reintegration and community safety. However, these organizations often face a complex challenge: how to responsibly screen applicants and help ensure the safety of clients, staff and the broader community.
This guide is designed to help nonprofit leaders navigate the legal, ethical and operational complexities of criminal background screening. From understanding federal and state laws to selecting the right screening tools and determining acceptable offenses, this guide walks you through critical steps.
To support implementation, the guide concludes with a comprehensive checklist that nonprofit leaders can use to evaluate and strengthen their current practices.