Volunteers in Police Services

Citizens that have graduated from the Citizen’s Academy will be trained in various police related duties. This allows the volunteers to provide direct support to a variety of Law Enforcement efforts. Volunteers function as an auxiliary unit of the Police Department but, have no powers of arrest beyond those of any private citizen. They will serve as extra “eyes, ears and helping hands.” Volunteers will not carry weapons but, will have direct communication with our Police Officers. This enables them to quickly report any suspicious activities, thereby enabling the Police Department to better serve the community.

FUNCTIONS/DUTIES OF VIPS

Patrol
Setting up and Assisting with Justice Court
Traffic Control
Vacation Checks
Front Counter and Clerical work
Transportation Assignments
Presenting Crime Prevention Programs
Assisting with Civic Events and Splash Days
Crossing Guard
High School Events
Ride-Along

TIME COMMITMENT

Volunteers are asked to volunteer on average 10 hours a month. These hours can be fulfilled however they fit into the volunteer’s personal schedule. Scheduled events will be at a specific times but most of our volunteer work can be worked around our volunteer’s schedules.

ELIGIBILITY

Volunteers must be 21 years of age, with good standing in the community. Applicants must pass a background check and must reside in the City of Saratoga Springs.

REASONS TO JOIN VIPS

Have the Opportunity to Serve Your Community
Work around Personal Schedules
Keep Active
Get to Know Local Law Enforcement Personally
Obtain a Uniform to Wear While Volunteering
Drive the VIPS Car while Patrolling and Otherwise Volunteering
Help with Traffic Control at Special Events or Traffic Accidents
Use a Police Radio to Contact Police Officers While Volunteering
Ride-A-Long with an Officer
Keep Children Safe by Performing Crossing Guard Duties

JOINING THE PROGRAM

Volunteers must attend our citizen’s academy. Please fill out this application to apply for the academy. Upon completion of the academy volunteers will have both classroom and field training prior to starting as full fledged volunteer. If you have any other questions regarding the program please contact the VIPS coordinator here.