Tenth is grateful for the service and dedication of our countless volunteers, without whom our ministries could not continue. We want to thank in particular those volunteers who give their time and talents to train up our children.
Pennsylvania Child Protection laws mandate specific clearances for adults who are responsible for the welfare of a minor or have “direct contact with children”–care, supervision, guidance or control, on an ongoing or recurring basis integral to a volunteer’s responsibilities.
What do I need to do?
- Please complete an application through the ministry where you wish to serve. Application requirements vary.
- Complete your background checks and clearances by following the instructions on the Background Check page of MyTenth. The process mandated by the state is tedious, but we’ve done everything we can to automate it. You should expect a few emails over the next few days with instructions to complete the clearances.
What Checks and Documents are Required?
For adult volunteers working with children, Tenth requires:
- Church membership
- A completed application form
- An interview with a ministry leader and elder
- A copy of a government-issued photo ID (Driver’s License, State ID, Passport, etc)
- A basic background check
- PA Criminal history Report (PATCH, required by PA law)
- PA Child Abuse History Report (required by PA law)
- FBI Clearance (one of the following):
- If you have only lived in PA for the last 10 years, a digitally-signed affidavit stating that you have only lived in PA and have never been convicted of a disqualifying offense.
- If you have lived outside PA within the last 10 years, an FBI background check, which includes fingerprint analysis.
Can I bring clearances I have from elsewhere?
If you work or volunteer in a setting that also requires the same clearances, we are able to accept the FBI Fingerprinting clearance. We are unable to accept PATCH (State Police) and PA Child Abuse History checks from elsewhere. However, Tenth will pay all costs associated with renewals, and you may be able to use the checks obtained at Tenth elsewhere.