VCAS Public Outreach
One of our most important functions is to share the wonders of the cosmos with the people in our community and state. We do this in a variety of ways.
We will gladly organize an astronomy night for your school, youth group, or other community organizations. Our members volunteer their time and their telescopes to bring the Universe to you. In a daytime classroom setting, we can recommend knowledgeable speakers/presentors and activities on various astronomy topics (for a speaker's fee) in conjunction with the free "a night at the telescopes" session.
We just ask that you let us know a minimum of four weeks in advance of when you would like to schedule an event.
We have a few requirements if you would like a night with the telescopes. For example, we need to choose a date without a full moon, a site with access to a fair portion of the sky, minimal artificial lighting, and easily accessible to everyone. And we want to make sure we can accommodate the size of your group.
If you are interested in our programs, please contact the Club President directly.
VCAS School Outreach Policy
The VCAS is a nonprofit, scientific organization whose members share a common interest in the diverse field of amateur astronomy. The Society is not only dedicated to its members, but to bringing astronomy to the public, families and children through school programs, public and other outreach events.
Our bylaws include a policy of performing background checks on club members who participate in outreach activities that may include contact with children. This is in accordance with standards set by such other groups as the Scout programs and juvenile athletic organizations. This practice not only provides protection to children; it also protects our club from possible lawsuits and negative publicity. While club members are rarely in charge of children in a "one-to-one" situation, we have decided to perform these checks to reassure schools and organizations requesting programs from our club.
The VCAS maintains a confidential list of club members who have been checked through the Megan's Law computer. This list is updated at least once a year. Any questions concerning this policy should be addressed to the Club President.Expanded Outreach Policy
Due to the heightened awareness of child safety in public areas, we have decided to expand our outreach policy to include member volunteers at VCAS sponsored public events. These guidelines were established using the "Best Practices for Screening Volunteers who Work with Children in Ohio" as a reference.
This policy applies to any member who wishes to present astronomy related information to the public as a representative of the VCAS. Failure to follow this policy could lead to dismissal from the club.
VCAS members who wish to volunteer at a club-sponsored school outreach event will be screened through the Megan's Law website. Permission is not needed, as this website is public domain. In addition, depending on the requirements of the paticular school, Members may be required to supply a copy of their driver's license, submit an application or other forms, and/or agree to a more thorough criminal background check in order to obtain approval to participate in a school outreach event.
Members who wish to particiapte in a school outreach event or other event held for the benefit of minor aged children MUST contact the VCAS Outreach Chairman or the VCAS Jr Outreach Chairman for screening and approval prior to the event.
Members and other volunteers who appear at an outreach event involving minor aged children but have not been screened and approved will be asked to leave immediatly.
Members listed on the Megan's law website will not be allowed to participate in school outreach events or other events held for the benefit of minor aged children.
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Ventura County Astronomical Society - VCAS Outreach
