Why Background Checks? Because they help to protect children
 

The national Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, enacted by the U.S. Bishops in 2002, requires that all employees in parishes and schools, as well as volunteers who spend 20 or more hours per year with children, must have up-to-date criminal background and child abuse clearances. This includes coaches, who are reminded that no practice may be held until these clearances have been received.

Gail Fromm, Diocesan compliance officer, explained why this is such an important part of the efforts to protect children:

“Almost every week, we read in the newspaper about another adult arrested for child sexual abuse. We watch television news in horror as sexual offenders are caught by undercover police officers in stings. We all shake our heads in disbelief when the perpetrator is someone we know, and we had no idea they were capable of doing anything like this. Yet, I am frequently asked, ‘Why do we need background checks?’”

She conceded that this is not surprising, since typically our employees and volunteers have devoted many years of faithful service to our parishes, schools and other institutions.

“Naturally, we would assume that our colleagues, friends and neighbors are beyond suspicion. But when it comes to protecting children, we can’t simply assume; we have to be as certain as possible,” Mrs. Fromm said.

Previously, the Diocese used the Pennsylvania State Police and Childline clearances to fulfill the background check requirement. As of January 2008, the Diocese now uses a more comprehensive and less costly background screening process through ChoicePoint VolunteerSelect. An application for the new background check can be found on the Diocesan website under Compliance Office, or it can be obtained at any parish office. Clearances are good for three years.

Obtaining background clearances, attending a VIRTUS training session and reporting any suspicious behavior are vital to creating safe environments for children, Mrs. Fromm said. “Our Lord Jesus Christ directed us to care for the children and never let any harm come to them. Each of us is called to protect God’s children as part of our Christian stewardship.”

“Instead of asking, ‘Why do we need background checks?’ let’s be sure we never have to answer the devastating question, ‘Why didn’t we get a background check?’” she added.

Mrs. Fromm is available to answer questions and provide assistance. She can be contacted at 877-5965. 
 

Notice Regarding Sexual Abuse of a Person Under Eighteen Years of Age by Ordained or Lay Personnel of the Diocese of Scranton 

Such an act should be reported to the Diocese by calling the Victim Assistance Coordinator (570-344-5216) or the Chancellor (570-207-2216) or the Vicar for Priests (570-207-2269).

Upon receiving a report of this kind, the Diocese of Scranton is committed to assisting victims or survivors of sexual abuse in their pursuit of emotional and spiritual well-being.