PWCPD Spotlight: Department's Volunteers are Dedicated to Service

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, and each year the Police Department honors those enrolled in the Volunteers In Police Service (VIPS) program who give of their time and talents to serve both the Department and the community. There are currently 18 volunteers in the VIPS program – half serving as Police Chaplains.

The volunteers are spread throughout the Police Department, working at the Criminal Justice Academy, in the Office of the Chief, at all three District Stations, and in Evidence, Forensics, Logistics, Recruiting, and Records. Several of the volunteers work on an as-needed basis, assisting with various things including Academy role-players, photography, and assisting with events in the Community Engagement Section. In 2024, these volunteers amassed close 3,000 hours!

The Department’s Personnel Bureau is responsible for recruiting and selecting potential police volunteers for the VIPS program. The Bureau conducts appropriate background screening of applicants. Volunteer applicants who successfully complete this process are then referred to Chief Peter Newsham for final approval. Once welcomed to the program by Chief Newsham, new VIPS are directed to the program coordinator for orientation, training, and assignment information.

The Police Department is actively seeking more chaplains – especially those who are fluent in both English and Spanish. And while chaplains from all faith backgrounds are most welcome, the Department is specifically seeking more Roman Catholic chaplains for the program.

Those seeking to serve as Police Chaplains must be an ordained and licensed minister in good standing by a recognized religious authority to function in a ministry of spiritual care. They must work for a house of worship within Prince William County and have previous experience in pastoral ministry/counseling. They must complete    a background investigation prior to appointment and meet other requirements.

The Police Department constantly assesses the needs for other VIPS volunteers. Our Animal Services Bureau is continually seeking volunteers. For other volunteer needs, please periodically refer to the Department’s website, and our social media platforms as openings arise.

During Volunteer Appreciation Month, we thank our volunteers for all that they do for the Police Department and our community!