Volunteer Program

Question 1

What is the purpose of using qualified volunteers in the Department?

Answer 1

To create efficiencies and improve services to the community

Volunteers supplement and support sworn officers and civilian personnel.

Question 2

Define ‘volunteer’ as per the Department’s policy.

Answer 2

An individual who performs a service for the Department without expectation of compensation

Includes unpaid chaplains, reserve officers, interns, and youth in Explorer Posts.

Question 3

Who appoints the Volunteer Coordinator?

Answer 3

The Field Operations Division Commander

Question 4

List the responsibilities of the Volunteer Coordinator.

Answer 4

• Recruiting, selecting, and training volunteers
• Facilitating new volunteer activities
• Maintaining volunteer records
• Tracking volunteer contributions
• Outlining expectations for volunteers
• Planning recognition events
• Administering discipline
• Liaising with community volunteer programs

Question 5

True or False: Volunteers should be recruited only when there is an immediate need.

Answer 5

False

Recruitment should be continuous and ongoing.

Question 6

What should prospective volunteers complete before being accepted?

Answer 6

An application form and a documented background investigation

Question 7

What is required before a volunteer can begin their assignment?

Answer 7

Official notice of acceptance and completion of required screening and paperwork

Question 8

What type of training must volunteers receive?

Answer 8

• Orientation program
• Position-specific training
• Periodic ongoing training

Question 9

Fill in the blank: No volunteer shall report to work when their judgment or physical condition has been impaired by _______.

Answer 9

[alcohol, medication, other substances, illness or injury]

Question 10

What are the dress code expectations for volunteers?

Answer 10

Present a professional image and conform to department-approved dress for their duty assignment

Question 11

Who is responsible for supervising volunteers?

Answer 11

A clearly identified supervisor assigned to the volunteer

Question 12

What must volunteers sign before accessing confidential information?

Answer 12

A confidentiality agreement

Question 13

What identification must volunteers wear while on-duty?

Answer 13

An identification card issued by the Department

Question 14

What must volunteers complete before using a Department vehicle?

Answer 14

• A driving safety briefing
• Verification of valid California Driver License
• Verification of current vehicle insurance

Question 15

True or False: Volunteers can operate marked patrol cars at any time.

Answer 15

False

Volunteers must not operate a marked patrol car unless it is clearly out of service.

Question 16

What can lead to a volunteer’s removal from the program?

Answer 16

Misconduct or at the discretion of the Chief of Police or Volunteer Coordinator

Question 17

What should exit interviews with departing volunteers aim to gather?

Answer 17

• Reasons for leaving
• Suggestions for improving the position

Question 18

How often should the overall volunteer program be evaluated?

Answer 18

Annually