Why does Transforming Jail Ministries need my Social Security number when I apply?
The Hamilton County Sheriff's Department conducts a criminal background check for all volunteers desiring to minister inside the secure areas of the jails. These are national background checks. In order to do these backgrounds checks your Social Security number and date of birth are needed. Anyone who has an interest in jail ministry must have a background check; therefore, anyone applying must provide a Social Security number, as well as their date of birth, to be considered.
While the Internet transmission is secure, anyone who prefers to provide a Social Security number over the telephone may do so by calling the TJM office directly.
Who has access to my private information?
The only access to your information occurs within TJM and the Sheriff's Department and all parties are trained to give sensitive information its due dilgence and confidentiality. When TJM receives your application containing personal information, a copy is provided to Corrections Administration of the Hamilton County Sheriff's Department. TJM files the original information in a locked cabinet in the main office.
How long will you keep my application?
We will keep your application on file for the duration of your jail ministry relationship through TJM. Clergy Contact Visiting applications will be shredded after six years of absence from the applicant. Those who successfully complete the Adult Jail Chaplaincy training, and are not invited to join the AJC Team, will be maintained on the reserve list for two years. Any variance from this will be made clear in specific application processes.