Police Volunteers

In July 2007, the Berwyn Police Department launched its Volunteers in Police Services (VIPS) program in collaboration with International Association of Chiefs of Police. Graduates of the Berwyn Citizens Police Academy are offered the unique opportunity to become a Berwyn Police Department Volunteer after completing additional training and then committing to a scheduled number of hours per month of volunteer service. Monthly meetings are held to review and discuss the volunteer force's progress, challenges and new assignments.

The mission of the Berwyn Police Department Volunteers is:

• To serve the Berwyn Police Department on a voluntary basis while performing specific activities inside the Police Department, on the streets of the City of Berwyn (city-wide or directed patrol) and during special community events such as Take Back the Night Rallies and National Night Out.
• To promote good relationships, communication and cooperation between Berwyn's residents and the Berwyn Police Department.
• To encourage resident participation in Neighborhood Watch, the Citizens Police Academy and VIPS program.

In addition to issuing citations for general parking violations, the Berwyn VIPS who patrol city-wide also serve as "force multipliers" – offering additional eyes and ears out on the streets of Berwyn. The street presence of the current volunteer force on "directed patrol" has made a measurable difference in crime reduction in certain areas of the City.

Volunteers who serve inside the Police Department building are valued for their assistance in processing the often-overwhelming amount of paperwork inherent to the operation of a law enforcement agency. These volunteers also have the opportunity to assist the on-duty Desk Officer during exceptionally busy periods by responding to resident's requests for general information.

The Citizens Police Academy offers Berwyn residents the opportunity to learn, first-hand, all that it takes our police force to protect and serve the City of Berwyn. Participation in the VIPS Program benefits everyone and gives the volunteers an increased sense of ownership of their community as well.

For more information on the Berwyn Citizens Police Academy and the VIPS Program, contact Unit Commander James Sassetti at 708-795-5600, extension 3150 or via email at jsassetti@ci.berwyn.il.us