In December 2023, the ACS Board of Directors approved the Volunteer and Participant Code of Conduct Policy, effective May 1, 2024. In the policy, item 10 states that a background check may be required for some events.

Starting on September 1, 2024, the Youth Protection Policy will take effect, and it details the expectations for volunteers at ACS Youth Events. ACS has partnered with Sterling Volunteers to conduct all background checks. This policy applies to all adults volunteering at ACS Youth Events in the U.S.

With National Chemistry Week approaching, please share the ACS Background Check link with your volunteers as soon as possible. Events scheduled before the end of September have a grace period and are exempt from the new policy. However, it is imperative for volunteers to familiarize themselves with the process and request a background check soon. All volunteers for ACS Youth Events after October 1 must comply with the Youth Protection Policy—no exceptions.

For more information:

Sincerely,

Kevin McCue

Assistant Director, ACS Divisions

American Chemical Society