Retired Senior Volunteer Patrol (RSVP)
The Retired Senior Volunteer Patrol (RSVP) was formed in 1991 as a volunteer group to assist the La Verne Police Department. A group of highly energetic, caring, and dedicated residents, the RSVPs assist with patrol, station, and community activities.
RSVP members do not take enforcement action, carry weapons, or make arrests; they are additional "eyes and ears" for the police. RSVPs perform tasks which free-up police officers to be utilized more efficiently. In addition to patrol duties, other duties performed by the RSVP group include: issuance of parking citations, conducting vacation house checks, providing emergency school crossing guard relief, assisting with clerical duties, providing Livescan fingerprinting for adults and children, and teaching safety programs at local elementary schools. Additionally, many hours are volunteered helping with the Police Department's community programs such as Citizens' Academy, National Night Out, and the "Every 15 Minutes" anti-drinking and driving program held in conjunction with Bonita High School.
Throughout the year RSVPs also participate in many city-sponsored functions. Members of the RSVP assist with Fourth of July activities, Concerts in the Park, Halloween Parade, and Winter Wonderland, to name a few.
To join the group you must be at least 55 years-of-age, pass the background and oral interview process, obtain approval from your doctor, complete the LVPD Citizens' Academy, and pass the RSVP training course (Note: training times vary based on activities to perform). Members are issued necessary equipment and uniforms ~ and what they are most proud of ~ their RSVP volunteer badge.
The group became a tax-exempt (501C3) organization when they incorporated on October 18, 2002 . The La Verne Police Department RSVP program has reached a level of involvement in La Verne that is unsurpassed by any other community. If you have an interest in "giving back" to the community and meet the requirements, then this program is for YOU! Applications can be obtained at La Verne Police Department, 2061 Third Street. For more information, contact Bill Witzka, Community Services Supervisor, at (909) 596-1913.
