Volunteers Sought for Riverside Police Chaplain Program

The Riverside Police Department is proud to announce the implementation of a “Police Chaplain Program" in our township. We recognize various faith based organizations are an integral part of our lives.  This program creates a partnership with various religious leaders within the community to assist us with providing an overall better quality of services.  

In today’s society the need for chaplains is greater than ever. Police Chaplains will aid the Riverside Police Department in strengthening bonds in the community between police, citizens, and clergy. 

The goal of the Chaplain Program is to have police work with faith based leaders during certain times of crisis, or during incidents which would benefit from a more comprehensive response.  Some aspects of a Police Chaplain's work include assisting police by providing comfort and support during local death notifications, scenes of a tragedy, working with troubled juveniles through community service projects, and providing counsel to employees and their families upon request.   

         

Some of the requirements set forth by the State of New Jersey to become a Police Chaplain include that a Police Chaplain be ordained with his or her church or house of faith, and successful background check. This is not a paid position and volunteer only. The department will set forth a training program for volunteers involved in the program which shall include a police ride-along.

If you or someone you know would like more information about becoming a Riverside Police Chaplain, please join us for an introductory presentation Thursday February 25^th at 7pm in the Riverside Municipal Court. Guest speakers include Gary Holden and Jason Scalzi of the NJ Police Chaplain association.  Reservations are appreciated but not required.  If you have any questions about the program or to reserve a place please contact Patrolman Anthony Cicali at: acicali@riversidepolicenj.org or (856)461-8820.