Community in Uniform: The Unsung Heroes of the Sheriff’s Office
Article By Sheriff Ian Parkerson
When people think of the Sheriff’s Office, they often picture flashing lights, deputies on patrol, or urgent calls for service. But here’s something you might not know: behind the scenes, there’s an entire team of community members—everyday citizens just like you—who put on a uniform, climb into a patrol car, and volunteer their time to keep San Luis Obispo County safe. They’re called the Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteer Patrol (SAVP), and they are one of our best-kept secrets in public safety.
Think of SAVPs as an extra set of eyes and ears for the Sheriff’s Office. They patrol neighborhoods and business districts, looking out for suspicious activity, supporting deputies, and reassuring residents. Their presence increases visibility, helps identify potential problems before they escalate, and ultimately makes our communities safer.
But their work doesn’t stop there. SAVP members attend neighborhood watch meetings to strengthen communication between law enforcement and the public. They conduct vacation house checks so families can travel with peace of mind. They help with traffic control at community events and provide crime prevention education to residents. In many ways, they are a bridge between deputies and the people we serve, helping to keep that relationship strong and grounded in trust.
Of course, this kind of work requires preparation. Before stepping into a patrol car, volunteers complete an extensive 40-hour training academy. That training covers everything from crime prevention tactics to CPR and first aid, radio communications, observation techniques, and traffic safety. SAVPs do not carry weapons, make arrests, or take enforcement action—that remains the role of sworn deputies. Instead, they are trained to observe, document, and report. It’s a simple but powerful contribution that multiplies the Sheriff’s Office’s ability to respond to the needs of our county.
Not everyone qualifies to be a Volunteer Patrol member, but many people do. Candidates must be at least 18 years old, of good moral character, with a clean driving record and no felony convictions. They must also be U.S. citizens. Once accepted, SAVPs commit to volunteering at least eight hours each month, attending monthly meetings, and presenting themselves professionally while on duty.
So why join? People come to the program for different reasons. Some want to give back to their community. Others are interested in law enforcement and want hands-on experience. Many are simply looking for a meaningful way to volunteer their time and skills. Whatever the motivation, the benefits are the same: SAVPs gain valuable training, meet new people, and make a lasting difference in their neighborhoods.
The Sheriff’s Office has been fortunate to benefit from the dedication of these volunteers. They are an essential part of our team, and their work directly contributes to safer streets, stronger neighborhoods, and closer ties between residents and law enforcement.
If you’ve ever considered getting involved, now is a great time. We are actively seeking men and women who want to step forward, serve their community, and carry on the proud tradition of volunteerism in San Luis Obispo County. Our next SAVP academy begins on October 13. It will be held once a week on Mondays for five weeks. To learn more or apply, please contact Crime Prevention Specialist Grace Norris at 805-781-4483 or by email at gnorris@co.slo.ca.us.
Public safety doesn’t just belong to law enforcement—it belongs to all of us. Our Volunteer Patrol members prove that every day by stepping up, staying alert, and lending a hand where it’s needed most. Their work extends the reach of the Sheriff’s Office and strengthens the fabric of our community. To every SAVP volunteer: thank you. You are the quiet force that helps keep San Luis Obispo County safe, and we couldn’t do it without you.
