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

• Assisting with civic events and Splash Days
• Crossing guard assignments
• Patrol
• Presenting crime prevention programs
• Setting up and assisting with Justice Court
• Traffic control
• Transportations assignments
• Vacation checks

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 schedule. Scheduled events will be at a specific time but most of our volunteer work can be worked around our volunteer’s schedules.

ELIGIBILITY

Volunteers must be 21 years of age, and 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
• Keep active
• Flexibility to work around your personal schedule
• Get to know local law enforcement personally
• Learn how to use a police radio to contact police officers while volunteering
• Keep children safe by performing crossing guard duties 

JOINING THE PROGRAM

Volunteers must attend our citizen’s academy. Please see the Citizen's Academy page to apply for the academy. Upon completion of the academy, you can fill out this application to apply to be a volunteer: