New Volunteers:

WELCOME! The Master Naturalist program is pleased that you are interested in learning more about becoming a volunteer. We appreciate your interest and look forward to your involvement. Background screenings are a necessary step in providing protection for program participants and other volunteers.

Our screening process includes completion of an electronic criminal background and registered sex offender check through our partner volunteer system – Sterling Volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering, in addition to completing the below forms, please contact the staff person listed on this page and they will send you Sterling Volunteers registration information.

The University of Illinois Extension requires all volunteers to complete and agree to the following:

• Volunteer Application
• An electronic criminal background and registered sex offender check through Sterling Volunteers.
• A child abuse and neglect tracking system check through the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
• Completion of The Abuse and Neglect Child Reporting Act (ANCRA) training.

Please complete all the forms and return them to our office as soon as possible.

After the application, all forms and the electronic criminal background and registered sex offender check through Sterling Volunteers has been completed and returned, and an interview has been conducted, you will be notified as a qualified candidate for the Master Naturalist Training class.

Interested in becoming a Master Naturalist? Contact Darci Webber or 309-663-8306.

Rescreening:

Volunteers must be rescreened every five years. The ANR Program Coordinator will contact you directly for information needed at that time.