See below for information about Registered Student Organization Forms and Clearances for volunteering in healthcare and education.
Registered Student Organization Information
Registered Student Organizations are encouraged to engage in community service around campus and in Philadelphia. RSOs should follow the information outlined in the Registered Student Organization Handbook found on the Office of Student Engagement Website. RSOs looking to host a charitable fundraiser or a donation drive should complete the Event Request Form and connect with the Assistant Director of Community Service.
Here are some best practices when engaging in service as a group to assist you in planning your activities:
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Identify an external organization for your RSO to work with. If you are having trouble identifying an organization, visit this list of Local Community Partners. You must be logged into your Jefferson account to view the list.
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Visit the organization’s website to familiarize yourself with their processes – send an email to ask if you’re not sure!
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Plan transportation to volunteer sites ahead of time (ex: carpooling, public transportation).
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Be respectful to staff, other volunteers, and communities served while on-site.
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Send a thank-you message to your site contact for working with your club/org.
Clearances
Certain jobs and volunteer opportunities, especially those working with children and vulnerable populations, require a series of clearances to ensure the safety of the populations the role serves. See below for details about common clearances requested in Pennsylvania.
Most clearances are free to obtain. Ask your employer about covering the cost of any remaining clearances.
The most commonly required clearances in Pennsylvania are the Child Abuse Clearance (CY113) and PA Criminal Record Check. These are free to obtain for volunteers. Some employers will provide their own link to obtain these clearances, or a code to cover the cost. For those that don't, you can find information to obtain them below.
Some employers may request an addition clearance in the form of an FBI Background Check. There is a cost associated with this background check, ask your employer or volunteer site if they are willing to help you cover the cost of the check.