Alameda Police Department volunteers are committed to assisting the Police Department in its goal of enhancing community safety, protecting life and property, while also reducing crime and the fear of crime.
Volunteers assist in building better community relations by giving the public an opportunity to become more familiar with the services provided by the Police Department, as well as a better understanding of the inner workings of the department.
There are two different types of volunteers at the Police Department, Event Volunteers and Volunteers in Policing, or VIP's. Both are responsible for their own assignments.
Event Volunteers are requested to work specific assignments at events that are held each year. Some of the events are the Fourth of July Parade, Art and Wine Festival, Neighborhood Alerts, Walk and Roll to School, Encinal Band Review, and Run for the Parks.
Volunteers in Policing, VIP's, are required to commit to working 16 hours per month at the Alameda Police Department. Some of their duties include front desk reception, answering telephones, building tours, clerical assignments, holiday mall patrol, and special events. In addition, they are also requested to help in annual events. Our VIP's are tremendously important to the Police Department and, without them, our officers would not be able to patrol the streets as needed.
Volunteers are selected through an application process. Applications are available through the Volunteer Coordinator at the Alameda Police Department. Potential candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum 18 years of age
- Graduate of the Citizen Police Academy
- Background investigation
- No misdemeanor convictions within one year of application.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, contact COPPS Volunteer Coordinator, at (510) 337-8305 or COPPS@alamedaca.gov
