Each Monday afternoon, John Geeslin puts on his gray and black uniform and heads out for his volunteer shift in a marked cruiser as a member of VIPS (Richardson Volunteers in Police Service). Geeslin was drawn to serve after attending the Citizen Police Academy. A ride-along with an officer inspired him to be a patrol volunteer.

“We drive and assist officers with things that tie up their evenings and alleviate them to focus on more pressing things,” Geeslin explained. “We perform duties like assist with house checks, delivering lockboxes, and performing driver assistance such as flat-tire help. We set out cones and block lanes when necessary.”

Like officers, patrol volunteers have their own uniform, vehicle, radio and computer system. They are able to respond to non-criminal calls and assist officers, freeing police to attend to the most pressing matters.

“It’s rewarding for me because it allows me to be more in touch with the city. I would encourage people to think about giving back as a way to serve and volunteer,” Geeslin said. “Being a police officer is a tough job. If we can drive around helping people and giving a positive vibe, it helps the officers’ morale too.”

Patrolling is just one option for VIPS. Other opportunities include areas ranging from office work, to vehicle cleaning, practice drills and community events. Volunteer Katina McAfee emphasized the various roles available to VIPS participants. She became involved with VIPS after joining a Neighborhood Crime Watch patrol and going through the Citizen Police Academy. McAfee has helped by playing a part in training exercises, volunteering in the annual Public Safety Expo, at Santa’s Village and more.

“I thought it was just wearing a uniform and driving a vehicle, but when I found out it was more than that, that’s what got me interested,” she said. “I dipped my toes in the water and saw how the officers are big-hearted and amazing. To see the Police Department in action and working blew my mind. It’s a genuine honor to be part of the things they encounter every day. It makes you feel like you are making a difference.”

Key Highlights

• Program began nationally in 2002

• 14,800 hours logged by Richardson volunteers in 2019 prior to the pandemic

• RPD has nearly 100 VIPS

• Must be 21, have completed a background check and undergone training

VIPS are more than just volunteers; they are an extension of the customer service that the Police Department offers the city. Through programs like fingerprinting, key lockboxes for senior citizens and home vacation watches, they can offer crime prevention services that officers don’t have time for while answering time-sensitive calls. At the site of a serious car crash, an officer must assist drivers with first aid, insurance information and potential charges. Meanwhile, field operations volunteers can wait for the tow truck, sweep up broken glass or offer a stuffed animal to a scared child. Our officers are known for having great customer service, but the VIPS help us serve residents better. -Meredith Watkins, Richardson Police Department Volunteer Coordinator

Learn how you can volunteer at www.richardsonpolice.net.