Chaplain Volunteers must be trained in compliance with standards of their respective faith which allows them to be considered ordained.
Civilian volunteers serve at the discretion of the Chief of Police and do not receive any salary or benefits except workers' compensation coverage. There will be no discrimination as to age, sex, race, or physical handicap in the selection of civilian volunteers. However, minimum age restrictions will be enforced. Volunteers are expected to have the ability, aptitude, and skills commensurate with their assigned duties.
Job Responsibilities
Chaplains may be called upon to:
a. Offer counsel to Department employees, their families, or the public who may have personal problems;
b. Liaison with other religious leaders in the community;
c. Assist with memorial services, award ceremonies, and other activities or special events;
d. Accompany agency personnel during death and serious injury notifications;
e. Visit sick or injured personnel at home or in the hospital;
f. Participate in pertinent in-service training programs and be willing to enter training courses to enhance their effectiveness;
g. Provide instruction in areas of ethical standards and spiritual fulfillment; and,
h. Provide support services at the scenes of major disasters.
Chaplains will not:
a. Respond to any crime scene or other situation unless specifically requested by the Chief of Police, a division major or other competent authority.
b. Provide emergency counseling that may best be provided by an emergency mental health facility; or,
c. Respond to the scene of barricaded suspects or other hostage situations to enter into a negotiation role, unless approved by the Chief of Police and/or the major of the SWAT/Hostage Negotiations Team.
Chaplain Ethics:
1. Chaplains will assiduously apply themselves to a greater understanding of moral laws (including cultural differences), office regulations, and the ethics by which they must live and guide others.
2. Chaplains will be mindful of their responsibility to pay strict heed to the selection of proper means in the discharge of their duty.
3. Chaplains will cooperate with other law enforcement and religious officials in the discharge of their duties, regardless of affiliation. In any situation open to question, chaplains will seek counsel from religious and/or law enforcement authorities.
4. Chaplains will be prepared to perform ministerial services in a manner becoming to the office of chaplain. Chaplains will give service where they can without interfering with office procedures or infringing upon the ministry of another member of the clergy. Above all, the chaplain must be of service to all humanity.
Volunteer Chaplains must:
1. Provide services on a scheduled basis, determined by the Chief of Police:
2. Attend any required training sessions.
3. Receive direction and supervision from the Chief of Police or his designate.
4. Agree to be evaluated by written documentation on CITY evaluation forms as required.
5. Prospective volunteers for programs covered herein must submit to an agency background investigation including, but not limited to, fingerprinting, driver license check, and an FCIC/NCIC check.
