A National Non-Profit Organization for over 32 years.

There are many reasons why people choose to obtain a pardon/record suspension. Mostly it is for employment or travel but often volunteer positions and coaching for children’s sports teams now require a criminal background check.

If you have a criminal record and even if the charges were withdrawn, dismissed, stayed, absolute or conditional discharged, it will get in the way of moving forward in your life and you may be denied volunteer opportunity.

How to Volunteer or Coach with a Criminal Record

It is important to take the necessary steps to remove your criminal record from public record so that you can be free to live your life without the worry of it coming back to haunt you. Once a record suspension is obtained, then you will be free to volunteer, coach, work and travel without worry.

The Impact of a Criminal Record on Volunteering

A criminal record in Canada is not just a list of past convictions; it represents every interaction you’ve ever had with the criminal justice system and can leave a lasting mark on your life. Many organizations now require a criminal background check as part of their standard procedure for ensuring the safety and integrity of their operations, especially when the role involves working closely with vulnerable populations, such as children.

A criminal record, regardless of its nature or the time since the offence, can result in a denied volunteering opportunity, making it much more difficult to give back to your community and engage in meaningful activities.

Why Should You Consider Volunteering?

Volunteering and community involvement can be fundamental to personal growth. These activities represent opportunities to reconstruct your public image, acquire essential skills, and contribute positively to society.

Beyond the act of contributing to the community, volunteering can provide a sense of inclusion and purpose which can be essential for those aiming to move beyond their criminal past.

  • Enhances Self-Worth: Volunteering can reaffirm your role as a valuable member of society, addressing and transforming negative self-views into positive self-esteem. It serves as evidence of the inherent ability of every individual to effect change.
  • Develops New Skills: Participation in these activities can expose you to new learning opportunities and experiences, ranging from general organizational skills to specific training for your role.
  • Expand Social Networks: Volunteering connects you with a broad spectrum of people, including peers and community leaders, creating networks that spark personal growth and potentially open new avenues for opportunities.
  • Demonstrates Rehabilitation: Consistent volunteer work on your resume can be seen as an indication of your rehabilitation and dedication to positive change. This commitment is particularly impactful when applying for a Pardon/Record Suspension, as it illustrates an active effort to contribute positively to society.
  • Provides Structure: Taking on these opportunities provides a structured, disciplined routine, offering stability that can be especially advantageous for those seeking reintegration into their community.

 

In a professional context, volunteering not only aids in community development but also plays a vital role in the personal rehabilitation and growth of individuals with past criminal records.

Getting a Pardon to Avoid a Denied Volunteering Opportunity

Getting a pardon, now known as a record suspension, is a key step towards a fresh start and new volunteering or coaching opportunities. In Canada, if you’ve served your sentence and stayed out of trouble for a certain period, you can apply for one. How long you have to wait depends on your offence and sentence, usually between three to ten years.

How to Get a Record Suspension for Volunteering

Applying for a Pardon or Record Suspension takes careful work. You need to collect all the necessary paperwork, like court and police records, to show you’ve served your sentence and lived a law-abiding life before submitting your application and a fee to the Parole Board of Canada. Pardons Canada is here to help you through every step.

How Pardons Canada Can Help

Pardons Canada has 3 decades of experience in navigating the complexities of securing a pardon or record suspension. Our services provide you with thorough support at every stage of the application process.

  • Check Eligibility: First, we figure out if you’re eligible for a record suspension.
  • Gather Documents: We help you collect all the required documents, ensuring nothing is missed.
  • Build Application: Our experts help you accurately fill out all necessary forms, compile the required documents and include relevant personal attestations to emphasize your ongoing rehabilitation efforts, such as records of community involvement or volunteer work.
  • Submit Application: We guide you in submitting your pardon application to the Parole Board of Canada, making sure it’s complete and on time.
  • Expert Guidance: Our team is with you offering support from start to finish, aiming to give you the best chance at clearing your record and opening up new opportunities.

 

Trusting your record suspension to Pardons Canada places your case in the hands of a team of seasoned and passionate professionals. We adapt our approach to meet your specific needs, ensuring that we address your situation with the care and attention it deserves.

We are here to provide continuous support, ready to answer any questions and assist with any additional steps required throughout your journey.

What Our Clients Have to Say

Our clients’ positive experiences and their success stories are the most important part of what we do at Pardons Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our FAQ page and the section below contain the answers to some common questions we receive about being denied volunteer opportunities because of a criminal record.

What types of volunteer opportunities can be affected by a criminal record?

Almost all volunteer opportunities, especially those involving vulnerable populations (children, the elderly and individuals with disabilities), require a clean criminal record. This includes roles in schools, nursing homes, community centers, and sports coaching.

Does a record suspension guarantee I can volunteer anywhere?

While a record suspension significantly increases your chances, some organizations may have additional screening processes. However, it removes the primary barrier related to criminal background checks.

If I was denied a volunteer opportunity, should I inform the organization once I’ve received a pardon?

Yes, once you’ve obtained a pardon it can be a good idea to reapply or inform the organization, as your criminal record will no longer be a barrier to your application.

Contact Pardons Canada if You Have Been Denied a Volunteer Opportunity

Don’t let your past define your future. Contact Pardons Canada today to learn how we can assist you in removing your criminal record and reclaiming your freedom.

Whether you’re hoping to volunteer, coach, work, or travel, we’re here to provide the support and guidance you need to achieve your goals. Start your journey towards a brighter future right now!

Pardons Canada undertakes all necessary steps and procedures for removing your criminal record, including: Pardons/Record Suspensions, Purges, Photograph & Fingerprint Destruction, and U.S. Entry Waivers.

How Can We Help You?

Speak with Counselor
Call (888) 394-6600

Monday to Friday
8:30 am – 5:00 pm EST

Visit our Head Office

1376 Bathurst St.
Toronto, ON M5R 3J1

Free Consultation

Get Started NowRequest FREE Consultation