Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in Illinois

Access to confidential information

I have had occasion to apply for voluteer positions that deal with helping children-- academic advocate, ''big brother'', etc. I am concerned about having to devulge personal information about medical details, finances and legal business. The release forms from these institutions are very broad in terms of the kinds of information and whom they can approach for it. While I definately have nothing to hide, I don't feel comfortable giving them cart blanche to gather anything they wish. I also don't believe that the information is very secure. I have offered to have my doctor write a letter stating that I am not a threat to children and can develop healthy, positive relationships with them; however, these organizations will not accept this compromise. As of now they could have access to my legal, financial and medical records if I sign the waiver. How can I protect myself while still assuring them that the children are protected? What laws protect me from their obtaining sensitive personnal information? Should I request a rewrite of the agreement that would limit cetain areas of inquiry and dissemination of such information? If the agreement does not specifically state the type of information, can banks, doctors and lawyers deny access


Asked on 6/21/07, 11:14 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Charles Watson Watson Law

Re: Access to confidential information

Unfortunately, you have few if any "rights" in this situation. You are not an employee, and you do not have to volunteer for these organizations. Therefore, if you want to volunteer you will have to live with their form. If they are willing to compromise, great, but if not, you have to make the fundamental decision for yourself.

Most releases of this sort provide you some "protection" -- at least on paper. However, if you are concerned about security, paper protection won't do you much good.

It's too bad that in this day and age volunteer organizations somewhat legitimately need to carefully vet their volunteers. However, that's the world we live in. Good luck!

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Answered on 6/21/07, 3:29 pm


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