VOLUNTEER SERVICES

For many years, our citizens have supported our daily operations by volunteering in various areas of the Agency. Our Volunteer Services Division has grown significantly, with new programs added and current programs evolving to meet the needs of our community and the Agency. In 2024, the volunteer division logged over 67,000 hours to contribute to our community.

The Volunteer Services Coordinator oversees approximately 500 volunteers in many different units including Citizens on Patrol, Guardhouse Unit, River Watch, Specialty Units, Clerical and more.

Citizens on Patrol

The Citizens on Patrol program is intended to serve as additional eyes and ears for the Sheriff and his deputies. It is not intended to replace routine patrol activities of the Sheriff, but to provide the county with additional observation capabilities to help reduce crime. The volunteers meet once a month at their respective District Offices, engage in trainings and form lasting friendships. The program provides the opportunity for volunteers to take an active role in helping their neighbors and local law enforcement officers keep a watchful eye.

Guardhouse

The MCSO Guardhouse Unit is a great way to get involved. Located at the MCSO Jail, the volunteers have the opportunity to greet our guests, who visiting for many different reasons. Many times, the volunteers are tasked with pointing the guest in the right direction.

Specialty Units

The Specialty Unit volunteers are hand picked to help with projects within the Intelligence Unit, Cold Case Unit, the Jail and more. If your intentions are to apply to volunteer in a specialty unit, we ask that you send in an updated resume with your completed application.

Clerical Unit

The Clerical volunteers are utilized on an as needed basis. While creating lasting relationships within the Agency, these volunteers are trusted to help with special projects, filing, answering phones, etc.

CERT & MERT

The CERT program is designed to train citizens on how to prepare and take care of themselves during times of disaster. This program teaches several topics such as fire safety, disaster medical operations, disaster psychology and preparedness, and search and rescue. CERT also establishes and maintains community response teams around the county that help promote preparedness and provide initial disaster response to their specific community. These teams are exposed to additional advanced training to include CPR/AED, Animal Response and Storm Spotter. 

The MERT program is designed to provide communications support to areas such as shelters, healthcare facilities, points of distribution and more during times of disaster. MERT members assist with moving valuable communications between agencies and locations about storm information, resources, needs, and requests. 

If you are interested in becoming a CERT/MERT volunteer, click the link below. If you have further questions, you may contact the Emergency Management Department.