At Pennsylvania Christian Camp, the safety of our campers is our highest priority. We are committed to providing a Christ-centered environment where children can learn, grow, and build lasting memories in a setting that is safe, respectful, and well-supervised.
Because PCC serves children, Pennsylvania law requires certain background checks (“clearances”) for adults who volunteer in roles that involve caring for, supervising, or working directly with campers. The information below explains how these requirements apply to volunteers at camp.
Who Needs Clearances?
Clearances are required for all staff over the age of 18.
Volunteers Residing in Pennsylvania
Volunteers who live in Pennsylvania must provide the following current clearances (issued within the past five years):
Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Check
Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance
FBI Criminal Background Check (fingerprinting), if applicable
Volunteers who already have valid Pennsylvania clearances for another role involving work with children (such as teaching, childcare, coaching, or ministry) may submit copies of those existing clearances, as long as they are still valid.
To start the process of obtaining a new clearance, please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services website.
Out-of-State Volunteers (30 Days or Less in PA)
Pennsylvania law provides a limited exception for volunteers who:
Live outside Pennsylvania, and
Will volunteer with children in Pennsylvania for 30 days or fewer in a calendar year
In these cases, Pennsylvania clearances are not required, provided the volunteer submits documentation showing they meet the child-protection or background-check requirements of their home state (or country). This documentation must be submitted before volunteering begins.
Important notes:
Only home-state (or home-country) clearances are required under this exception.
Volunteers do not need to obtain Pennsylvania clearances if they qualify for the 30-day out-of-state exception.
The 30-day limit is cumulative across all volunteer service with children in Pennsylvania, not per organization. For example, if a volunteer spends 15 days serving with children at one Pennsylvania camp and 20 days at PCC in the same year, the 30-day limit is exceeded, and they must obtain Pennsylvania clearances.
To view your states requirements, click here.
Out-of-State Volunteers (More than 30 Days in PA)
Out-of-state volunteers who will work with children in Pennsylvania for more than 30 days in a calendar year are required to obtain Pennsylvania child-protection clearances, regardless of any clearances they may hold from another state.
Once the 30-day threshold is exceeded, the same Pennsylvania clearances required of in-state volunteers apply.
Who is required to obtain FBI Background Checks?
Individuals obtaining Pennsylvania clearances who have not lived in PA continuously for the past 10 years must receive an FBI Criminal Background Check. This includes:
Pennsylvania residents who have lived outside PA at any point in the last 10 years
Anyone who recently moved to Pennsylvania
Out-of-state volunteers who are required to obtain Pennsylvania clearances (such as those serving more than 30 days with children in PA)
Volunteers who have lived in Pennsylvania continuously for the past 10 years do not need FBI fingerprints and may instead complete an affidavit confirming their residency history.
This fingerprint check allows Pennsylvania to search national criminal databases and helps ensure thorough screening for the safety of our campers.
Out-of-state volunteers who are serving 30 days or fewer in Pennsylvania do not need FBI fingerprints, unless fingerprinting is part of the background check process required by their home state.
I Live in a Different State. Can I Choose to Obtain PA Clearances Instead?
Out-of-state volunteers may choose to obtain Pennsylvania clearances instead of using home-state documentation, even if they qualify for the 30-day exception.
Pennsylvania clearances are always accepted and fully satisfy state requirements. Some volunteers choose this option because it can be simpler, especially if they plan to volunteer at multiple Pennsylvania organizations or expect to exceed 30 days of service later in the year.
How do I submit my clearances?
You can submit your clearance documents directly through our website using our secure online form. Simply upload your documents where prompted, complete the required questions, and submit the form. Once submitted, you’ll receive a confirmation that we’ve received your information.
If you have any trouble uploading your documents or have questions about the process, please don’t hesitate to contact us; we’re happy to help!
Where can I find more information about obtaining clearances?
For more information, please visit www.pa.gov/agencies/dhs
Our Commitment to Safety
PCC reviews and maintains appropriate documentation for all volunteers in accordance with Pennsylvania’s Child Protective Services Law and guidance from the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. These requirements help ensure a safe, supportive environment for every camper and volunteer.
We recognize that background-check requirements can feel complex, especially since laws and expectations vary from state to state. Our goal at Pennsylvania Christian Camp is not to create unnecessary hurdles, but to be thoughtful, transparent, and faithful stewards of the children entrusted to our care.
By following Pennsylvania’s child-protection requirements, we help ensure a safe, supportive environment where campers can focus on learning, growing, and building meaningful relationships. We are grateful for the many volunteers—both from Pennsylvania and from other states—who give their time and talents to make PCC possible.
If you have questions about which requirements apply to you, or need help navigating the process, we are always happy to assist. Thank you for partnering with us in making PCC a place where children are cared for, protected, and encouraged.