As you may already be aware, the Bulverde Police Department (BPD)

As you may already be aware, the Bulverde Police Department (BPD) is in the process of
implementing a volunteer program where citizens can apply with the police department to assist
the City in various volunteer capacities. The BPD is very close to officially launching the
Volunteer in Police Services (VIPS) program. The VIPS program in Bulverde is envisioned to
enhance and supplement existing neighborhood and business patrols, with a strict “observe and
report only” policy for volunteers. Additionally, volunteers may assist with special community
events, assist officers with residential and business checks, roadway speed survey’s, clerical
duties, investigations, etc. There are many valuable benefits of a VIPS program, but the most
significant component is community involvement, building partnerships with members of the
community, and to create a safer Bulverde.
VIPS policies and procedures have been written and are pending official approval, equipment is
being prepared, and a training program is being developed, so now it’s time to start searching
for those people willing to make a commitment to BPD and their community. Volunteers will be
expected to make a minimal commitment (12 hours a month) to the program. Approximately 8
hours of volunteer training will occur, being split between the classroom and in the field (patrol
car). Volunteers will be instructed on how to stay safe while volunteering, handle situations
within the policies set forth for the program, and also what is expected of them while
volunteering.
Anyone interested in volunteering for the VIPS program should send an email to
[email protected] with your name, address and a contact phone number.
Please feel free to include a short paragraph as to why you would like to volunteer for the VIPS
program. Once your email has been reviewed, you will receive a response via email with an
application attached. The application must be completely filled out to be considered for a
volunteer position. Once your application has been submitted, it will be reviewed for
completeness and forwarded for further administrative review and background investigation.
Once this process is complete, those individuals that are eligible will be contacted for a short
interview with a Bulverde police department administrator for final approval. We are very
excited about VIPS and look forward to working together with members of our community to
enhance public safety in Bulverde.

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