Charlottesville police seek to strengthen community connections through launch of volunteer corps

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (WVIR) - The Charlottesville Police Department has announced the launch of their Volunteer Corps program, opening the door for community members, local businesses, faith‑based organizations, and civic groups to get to know officers and help out at events.

Program assistant Francesca Diggs said the goal is to bring the community into the work CPD is already doing — not just invite people to attend.

“We do so many community events, it would be really nice to have the community participating with us and not just something that we’re putting out for them,” Diggs said.

She described the program as a chance for residents to get to know officers outside of traditional work settings, and to use their own skills to support events throughout the year.

“This community has so much talent, right? And I know there are plenty of people that have a little extra time,” Diggs said. “And so we would love to be able to have them work alongside us to get these events rolled out throughout the year.”

Big CPD events - including National Night Out and Santa Van - are among the programs that members of the volunteer corps can participate in.

The department says the program is designed to strengthen relationships between officers and the community.

CPD is encouraging residents and local organizations to help spread the word and consider signing up.

www.charlottesville.gov/FormCenter/Police-26/Volunteer-Corps-Application-379

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