Provo City

 

What is the Volunteers in Police Service Program?

The volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) Program is a national program which provides support and resources for law enforcement agencies in developing or enhancing a volunteer program and for citizens in the community who wish to volunteer their time and skills within a law enforcement agency. 

 

How will I benefit from volunteering?

Volunteers have the opportunity to give back to their country, state, and local community through the hours they volunteer.  Volunteers gain invaluable insights into our nation's law enforcement system and how it works.  Volunteers have the opportunity to improve the quality of their local law enforcement service through their work, their attitude, and ideas for improving programs.

 

What types of volunteer opportunities are available at the Provo Police Department?

There are many opportunities available for the community to become involved with our department.  The following are a current list of ways you can help:

 

  

How is the program set up?

The program is divided into three tiers of volunteers:

  • Tier 1, Administrative Functions -- ex. office/clerical support, fingerprinting, department tours
  • Tier 2, Specialized Assignments -- ex. support for Victim Services
  • Tier 3, Field Duty -- ex. manual/pedestrian traffic control, Community Policing events, Citizens on Patrol (Park/River Trail patrol), chaplain services
     

What are the requirements?

Any person over the age of 18 who does not have a criminal history is eligible.  Simply fill out the VIPS Application Form, Criminal History Waiver, and Confidentiality Agreement and turn these into the front counter of the Provo Police Department.  Packets will also be available at the police department for those who do not have a printer available.  You may also fill out an interest form to be contacted at a later date and email this to Lt. Grossgebauer.

 

Do you have tips for volunteers?

Consider the skills you have to offer:  If you enjoy outdoor work, have a knack for teaching, or just enjoy interacting with people, you may want to look for volunteer work that will incorporate these aspects of your personality.

Try something new:  Perhaps you would like to learn a new skill or gain exposure to a new situation.  Volunteering can help you improve certain skills or simply offer a change from your daily routine.

Don't over-commit your schedule:  Make sure the volunteer hours you want to give fit into your hectic life, so that you don't frustrate your family or exhaust yourself.

Combine your goals:  Look for volunteer opportunities that will also help you achieve other goals for your life.  For example, if you want to get in shape, pick an active volunteer opportunity, such as Citizens on Patrol.

 

Who should I contact if I have further questions?

Further questions can be directed to Lt. Todd Grossgebauer through email or by phone at (801) 852-6250.

 

What are further volunteer opportunities?

Information about volunteering in Utah County through the United Way program may also be accessed here.

For more information about the national program, you may visit the Police Volunteers website.