April 18 to 24 is National Volunteer Week.  The entire month is also dedicated to honoring the significant contributions of volunteers who make a positive difference in our communities. 

We are inspired and proud of the more than 800 volunteers in our Law Enforcement Services Bureau and 1,200 volunteers in our Detention Services Bureau. (At this time, programming in our jails is suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  However, these volunteers remain committed and ready to return once COVID-19 safety protocols are lifted.)

Our diverse roster of passionate individuals donate their time and talent to enhance the work of deputies and staff.  They fulfill critical needs at our stations, substations and detention facilities.  Volunteers make our communities stronger, especially during times of need, crisis or isolation.  Even during a pandemic, volunteers donated 87,000 hours last year to support our mission of keeping communities safe. 

In the midst of uncertainty, senior volunteers found innovative ways to bring help and hope to those who need it most.  Along with deputies, they serenaded seniors enrolled in the Sheriff's You Are Not Alone (YANA) Program.  They also delivered groceries, meals,  medications and hosted food drives for those most at-risk from the COVID-19 virus.  Watch our Serenades of Hope video. 

We also want to shine a light on the extraordinary contributions of teen volunteers or Explorers and our Volunteer Mounted Unit and their valuable impact in our neighborhoods. 

Join us as we recognize, celebrate and thank Sheriff's Department Volunteers.  They are valuable partners for the greater good.  They took the initiative to say " We can help." 

Whatever your experience, interest or schedule, we can find a volunteer opportunity that's right for you.  We would love to hear from you.  Visit www.sdsheriff.gov/volunteer.