Local CHP Office Recruiting Senior Volunteers

News from the CHP:

The Santa Rosa Area office of the California Highway Patrol is seeking motivated individuals interested in giving back to their community through its Senior Volunteer Program.

The program was initiated in 1992 and today has over 700 volunteers statewide. Senior Volunteers (SVs) supplement everyday operations and allow officers to handle higher priority calls; additionally, they will act as extra “eyes and ears” for the department, and enjoy the satisfaction of providing community service through their assistance of law enforcement.

SVs are not peace officers, do not make arrests, and do not carry weapons. Responsibilities will include both administrative and field duties, and will consist of filing, answering phones, public service, radar trailer deployment, aid with traffic complaints, vehicle transfers, and more.

SVs also run the Age Well, Drive Smart senior driving program presented throughout the county. Volunteers will be given a thorough orientation of CHP procedures; vehicle and equipment operations; and will have opportunities to ride along with officers during their day to day patrol.

“We are looking for people of good character that have a strong desire to serve and give back to their community,” said Captain Mike Palacio, Commander of the Santa Rosa Area.

SVs must be 55+, have no felony or serious misdemeanor convictions, possess the ability to pass a background check, be of good moral character, have a safe driving record, be physically and psychologically suitable for the assignment; as well as, possess some computer literacy with a willingness to learn more.

Interested citizens can call (707) 588-1400 or stop by the Santa Rosa Area office at 6100 LaBath Ave, Rohnert Park for more information.