Volunteer opportunities

The Maryland Department of State Police (MDSP) welcomes volunteers who want to help support public safety. The Volunteers in Police Support (VIPS) program allows people to assist troopers by taking on non-enforcement tasks so officers can focus on their sworn duties. Since starting in 1985 with just 3 volunteers, VIPS has grown to over 100 volunteers working in more than 90% of the Maryland State Police barracks and units statewide. Volunteer activities Assisting with crime prevention and community outreachProcessing traffic citations and reportsEntering data for DUI, seat belt, pawn, and speed enforcement records, as well as traffic stop documentation and other related needs.Supporting the Police Academy by acting in training scenariosHelping with photography, filing, or clerical workLeading barrack and facility tours Volunteers may work in barracks, the Police Academy, Human Resources, Central Records or other MDSP divisions. Volunteer requirements Be at least 18 years oldHave good moral characterHave no criminal convictionsHave a clean driving recordBe physically and mentally able to perform assigned dutiesPass a background check Every volunteer receives on-the-job training for their specific tasks. Applicants may be rejected for not meeting requirements or if their behavior/characteristics are deemed inconsistent with program goals by the Barrack/Unit/Division Commander, VIPS Coordinator, Assistant Commander, or Human Resources Division. Benefits Volunteers may ride along with troopers as part of their dutiesVolunteers are provided limited coverage by the Injured Workers Insurance Fund (IWIF) for injuries sustained while performing volunteer duties. How to Apply Apply online using the Volunteer and Internship request form . Questions? Linda Hoopes Volunteer Coordinator Email Linda.Hoopes@maryland.gov Main 410-653-4278