I contacted Crossroads (CR) as a potential volunteer and had a very hard time moving through the process. I was asked to sign forms and provide consent for a credit check even though I was told by two staffers that a credit check wasn't necessary. Of course, given the nature of the job, I was more than happy to submit to a criminal background check but as I was unclear as to the need for the credit check, I chose not to provide my consent on this particular form. I was then told I couldn't be processed without out it even thought it's not a necessary component of the background investigation. Wait what?!! When I pointed out that this didn't make any sense, I asked to speak to HR, and when she couldn't clarify, I was told to contact the vendor who performs CR's background check to help me understand why the forms are needed. What?!! At this point, I was exasperated.
CR staff interacting with potential volunteers should be trained to understand and explain the content of these forms in an effort to make this process as hassle-free as possible. Neither the volunteer coordinator with whom I spoke or the HR rep she forwarded me to could explain the forms that they are asking me to sign! The forms are giving them access to my private, confidential information, which they say is not needed or required to serve as a volunteer, but that I must nonetheless sign or else I cannot serve. At this point, I am looking into other hospices to find a place that is actually interested in bringing in people in to help. What a horrible, horrible way to engage potential volunteers. RUN, don't walk, away from Crossroads Hospice! I'm sure there are other places where you can volunteer your time and where you can be appreciated.
-your friendly soon to be hospice volunteer elsewhere - J. Brown read more