Procedures Effective October 2023
Prior to starting the background check procedures you need to print, sign and mail the Volunteer Agreement form to CMG, 325 Resource Dr, NB, Tx 78132 Attn: Membership. Click here for the form.
1. Log onto https://evs.tamu.edu
2. Click “Apply Now to Become a Master Gardener”. The fee is $12. This fee will be applied to your background check later in the process. Please note: CMG has not bulk paid for background checks. You are responsible for the $12 fee.
3. Complete requested information
4. When you receive an approval email from Texas A&M AgriLife – EVS, click on the link called “Master Volunteer Agrilife Learn Course”. This will take you to a training course that must be completed before you can apply for your background check.
Training course consists of 3 modules 1) Expectations, Overview and Using the Title; 2) Financial, Risk and Conflict Management; 3) Diversity and Inclusion. The course requires about 3 hours to complete which you can do in multiple sessions. You have 60 days to complete it.
The good news?? You can log 3 CE hours once you’ve completed the training.
5. Upon completion of the course, including the Conclusion module, you will receive see instructions for applying for a background check. You will also receive an email from AgriLife with instructions for completing your background check.
6. Set up a username and password with Sterling Volunteers in the “Volunteer” section, if you don’t already have one. NOTE: this is NOT your VMS username and password.
7. Select “GET VERIFIED” and enter the code 7jicmtz
8. Complete the background check questionnaire. Ignore any mention of $12. When you complete the form, the amount will be zeroed out.