The goal of VIPS is to increase communication and problem solving through volunteer contributions and suggestions. It also offers opportunities for volunteers to serve within the Police department.

Volunteers assist the Police Department in many ways. VIPS are used in parades, auctions, Ramsey County Fair and many other events in addition to general patrol and being the eyes and ears of the department.

VIPS members are trained in first aid and CPR. They receive training in traffic control and radio use. They also receive an eight hour field training course by one of the senior members. We want the members to be well trained observers and reporters.

Members must be at least eighteen years of age, a concerned member of the community and committed to meeting community needs. To become a member, an application must be filed.

To be accepted, you must pass an oral interview and back-ground check. Applications are available at the Police Department. The VIPS unit is generally held at a maximum of fifteen members.

Volunteers in police services actually started in Maplewood in 1997. The group was known as City of Maplewood “Park Patrol”.

Members wore a green golf shirt and tan pants. Members used an old squad car painted green to patrol the parks.

It was discovered that the VIPS could be useful in more then just park patrol. The members started to patrol the residential areas as well as the shopping centers. The unit name was changed Citizens on Patrol or COP.

Members uniforms were changed to a white shirt and tan pants. The patrol squads were dark blue.

The name was ultimately again changed to V.I.P.S. The uniform now is a light blue shirt and dark blue pants. The squads were changed to white with blue graphics.

More information can be obtained by contacting (651) 249-2600.