Increasing capacity & changing the culture : volunteer management in law enforcement

Abstract

In the post-September 11 world, law enforcement agencies are struggling to protect their communities from the threat of global terrorism, and also preparing for and responding to natural and manmade disasters. The demands on municipal law enforcement agencies have never been greater. Today, more than ever, it is clear that volunteers can play a fundamental role in augmenting a department's homeland security efforts. Are there best practices when incorporating volunteers into a law enforcement agency and how does law enforcement maximize its volunteer effort? This thesis set out to answer the question: How does a designated Volunteer Coordinator impact mission performance in a law enforcement agency's volunteer program? Furthermore, the research will address the role of volunteers in law enforcement, including how volunteers can augment an agency's homeland security strategic plan. Research included a survey, literature review, and case study. Although the research and survey data do not provide incontrovertible proof that a Volunteer Coordinator is a necessity to a volunteer program, there is sufficient evidence to show that a volunteer program is more effective when properly managed and led.