Step By Step Process for LAFA Volunteers
Under current PA law, all volunteers representing LAFA must obtain the below clearances in order to work around children. This will be strictly enforced during the entire season. No exceptions will be made. If you do not have clearances, you will not be permitted to represent LAFA in any capacity.
As of July 1, 2015 we have ammended our volunteer policy in accordance with the Child Protective Services Law (CPSL) Acts 153 (2014) and 15 (2015).
People who require clearances are definied as any volunteer that is tasked with the care, supervision, guidance or control of children in any capacity. Simply put, if you are 1. volunteering 2. representing LAFA in any capacity and 3. are anywhere near children - you need your clearances.
Anyone who is not a volunteer does not require these clearances.
In Pennsylvania, volunteers can obtain free child abuse and State Police Clearances once every 57 months. This includes the PA Child Abuse History Certification (CY-113) and the PA State Police Criminal History (SP4-164). These clearances are good for 60 months from the date of issuance.
The FBI Criminal History Background Check (fingerprinting) requires a fee ($22.95); however, that requirement (and fee) is waived if you have 1. been a continuous Pennsylvania resident for the past 10 years and 2. complete and submit an affidavit.
Required Clearances (3):
1. PA Child Abuse History Certification
2. PA State Police Criminal History
3. FBI Criminal Background Check and Fingerprinting OR Disclosure Statement for Volunteers affidavit
Once you receive responses to the background checks, you must submit a copy of each to one of the LAFA League Officers. LAFA will provide you with a set of credentials indicating that you have been cleared to participate in league activities and the expiration dates of those clearances. Clearances that have been obtained after 7-1-15 are valid for 60 months.
***It is recommended that you apply for these clearances as soon as possible as it may take time to get your clearances back from the various agencies. Remember, beginning July 1, 2015, by Pennsylvania law you may not participate as a volunteer with LAFA in any capacity unless you have obtained these clearances and background checks listed above. Please reach out to us with any questions.***
USA Football
LAFA is committed to evolving and growing the sport of football for our West Chester youth. For the second year, we are participating in the USA Football Heads Up program which is setting the standards and best practices to advance coach and player development as well as safety in our game. To complete your required certification to coach in LAFA please click on Get Certified.
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