Saint Joseph Parish and Schools must adhere to the following requirements concerning volunteers. These safeguards have been set up by civil and Church authorities to protect our children and youth, as well as the elderly and disabled. We hope that this process doesn’t dampen your desire and willingness to volunteer. We need you! Your collective efforts make this Parish such a vibrant, caring community and we are grateful that you give so generously of your time and talents. CORI (Yearly) It is mandated by Massachusetts state law that all Parish staff, Parish volunteers, school staff, school volunteers, religious education teachers, and religious education volunteers submit a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) background check each year to ensure the safety of children, youth, elderly, and the disabled. If any questionable information is obtained through the CORI, the Archdiocese contacts the Pastor solely and he then takes any appropriate measures. Since it is necessary for you to show a photo identification (license), CORI forms have to be filled out in person at the Rectory or at the Elementary or Middle School offices. CAP SESSION (One Time Only) The Archdiocese requires that all Parish staff, Parish volunteers, school staff, school volunteers, religious education teachers, and religious education volunteers attend a CAP (Child Abuse Prevention) Training Session just once. These informative sessions, which include videos and group discussion, are approximately 2 to 2.5 hours long. Our Parish usually has sessions in the spring and fall. Be sure to sign the roster sheet for the session you attend. You may register for a CAP Training session online by submitting the registration form, please click here! If you attend a CAP session at St. Bart’s in Needham or any other place, send a copy of your Certificate of Attendance with a note to: Elaine Parks, Saint Joseph Parish, 1382 Highland Ave, Needham, MA 02492. CODE OF CONDUCT (One Time Only) The Archdiocese requires that all Parish staff, Parish volunteers, school staff, school volunteers, religious education teachers, and religious education volunteers sign a “Code of Conduct” stating they will uphold Christian values and conduct in all pastoral situations. Please remember to sign this form at the Rectory when you fill out your CORI form.

Saint Joseph Parish is blessed with a small army of volunteers!  Mother Theresa said, "Good works are links that form a chain of love." That love is evident here in our Parish.