The Long Beach Police Department announced Monday it is accepting applications for its Senior Police Partner volunteer program, with interviews scheduled to start October 19, officials stated.
Senior volunteers go through a training academy before becoming SPPs, which, although not as long and physical as police academy training, teaches them about available resources, as well as police culture such as radio codes.
A handful of senior volunteers were recognized for their service during the program’s 20th anniversary celebration in August.
Since the program’s inception, SPPs have served an average of 5,000 volunteer hours each year, totaling more than 100,000 hours over the past 20 years.
SPPs provide the following services:
- Crime victim assistance
- Vacation checks
- Peer support / Resource referral
- Graffiti reporting
- Limited safety patrols
- Handicap parking cites
- Education and awareness programs
- DUI checkpoints
- Community presentations
Those interested in applying should meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 50 years age
- Good moral character
- No felony convictions
- Good physical health
- Ability to volunteer at least 20 hours per month
- Possess a valid California driver’s license and vehicle insurance
For more information or to request an application, call 562.570.7212 or email [email protected].
Above, left photo courtesy of LBPD.