The Volunteers in Policing was started in October 1, 1993.  All volunteers are graduates of the Odessa Citizens Police Academy and/or Police Department Retirees.

The goals of the Volunteer Program are to foster good community relations and support the Department through voluntary involvement of its citizens by:

• providing an opportunity for citizen participation at the Odessa Police Department

• enhancing police services by using volunteers to supplement police department staff

• increasing cooperative effort between the Odessa Police Department and the citizens of Odessa

• promoting and assisting citizen understanding of police problems and issues

• increasing awareness of the police department's programs

Becoming a V.I.P. (Volunteer in Policing) does have required responsibilities, such as:

• Scheduling time to volunteer

• Be Reliable - Arrive on time for each assignment / Carry out assignments to the best of your abilities / Fulfill your commitments

• Be dependable - Use reasonable judgement / Know your limitations / Respect confidentiality of Information

• Be supportive of the Odessa Police Department's goals and programs

• Accept training requirements and constructive suggestions from supervisors

• Adhere to the rules and regulations of the volunteer program

• Adhere to the chain of command

• Follow proper grievance procedures

• Keeping accurate records of hours, days and services performed for the programs benefit as well as your own

• Your attitude and attire should reflect your pride in volunteering for the Odessa Police Department

• Dressing properly.  Neatness in personal appearance is important when dealing with the public

SAFETY:

• Do not, under any circumstances, take any enforcement actions.  Call a Police Officer.

• No form of weapon will EVER be carried.

• Never enter a dangerous situation.  Call a Police Officer.

• Report all accidents and mishaps immediately.

• Volunteers are not permitted to operate any City vehicles, unless assigned to the C.O.P. program.   You may use your personal vehicle for volunteer business but you must keep track of your mileage for tax purposes.

• NEVER identify yourself or insinuate through actions that you are a Police Officer.  Always identify yourself as a volunteer.

SERVICE AVAILABILITY:

• Animal Control Division

• Auto Theft Task Force

• Community Relations Division

• Crime Prevention Unit / Neighborhood Watch Program

• Explorers

• Patrol Services Bureau

• Police Athletic League

• Records Unit

• Traffic Division

• Special Events and Assignments

You are encouraged to become involved in your community and your Police Department.  You can help make a difference!  

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