Demystifying Eligibility Criteria for Record Suspension
Most volunteer positions now require a criminal background check before being accepted for the position.
If you have an old criminal record or even if you have been charged with a criminal offence and the charge was later withdrawn, dismissed, stayed, peace bond or discharged, you will not be able to volunteer.
Once a pardon/record suspension is approved, your name will no longer show up on a criminal background check and you will be safe to volunteer.
Below is a recent thank you letter from a person we helped to obtain a pardon/record suspension for a theft conviction many years ago:
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.
