Join WCSO: Explore Volunteer Opportunities | |
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Volunteers are at the heart of what we do at the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Whether it’s supporting community outreach, assisting with programs, or lending a hand behind the scenes, our volunteers make a real impact every day.
There are so many ways to get involved, and every role plays a part in helping us serve and protect our community. Check out some of the awesome opportunities below—we’d love to have you on the team!
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Want to serve your community but can’t make a full-time commitment? Consider joining the Sheriff’s Office Reserve Program!
Reserve deputies are sworn volunteer law enforcement professionals who assist full-time patrol deputies in protecting and serving our community. Many of our reserve deputies bring unique life experiences, skills, and knowledge to the program while also balancing full-time jobs.
If you are interested in applying for this unique volunteer opportunity or know someone who may be a great candidate for this role, visit our Reserve Program page for more information.
The deadline to register for the 2026 Reserve Academy is April 1, 2025.
If you would like to learn more about the Reserve Program, join us for our Q&A session!
- March 1, 2025
- 1 to 3 p.m.
- Public Safety Training Center (600 SW Walnut St, Hillsboro)
Members of the Reserve Program team will be there to answer your questions!
Register for the Q&A session
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Do you know a teenager interested in emergency services, law enforcement, or outdoor experiences?
The Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue Program (SAR) equips young men and women with essential life skills. SAR provides unique insights into exciting career fields of law enforcement, search and rescue, and emergency medical services.
This program has an excellent reputation and is often sought after by law enforcement agencies across the state. Members are primarily involved in search and rescue missions for lost people, downed aircraft, and evidence in significant crimes.
To participate, volunteers must meet the following requirements:
- Between the ages of 14-17
- Washington County resident
- Positive community record
- Good physical health
- Minimum 2.3 GPA with no failing classes
- Basic training academy
- Minimum 2-year commitment as an active member
Interested in joining our unique team?
Join us for an informational session at the Sheriff's Office (215 SW Adams Ave., Hillsboro) on the following days/times:
- Saturday, March 5, 2025: 10 a.m. or 5 p.m.
- Monday, March 31, 2025: 7 p.m.
Apply now! Applications are due by April 19, 2025.
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Make a difference in your community today by joining the Elder Safe volunteer team.
Volunteer advocates connect with crime victims in Washington County over 65 to provide resources and support. The cases referred to our volunteer advocates are specific to scams and fraud, elder abuse, and elder neglect.
Elder Safe volunteer advocates provide:
- Older adult victims with emotional support and information about their case
- Community education on elder abuse issues
- Information and referrals to community resources
- Safety planning
- Education about the criminal and civil justice process
The Elder Safe Program is successful because of our volunteer advocates, the personal connections built with older adult victims, and the support we can offer as they progress through the criminal justice process.
For more information, please contact the Elder Safe Program or call 503-846-6048.
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Sheriff's Office Foundation | |
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The Washington County Sheriff's Office Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports our safety efforts and is the sole entity authorized to raise funds on our behalf.
Their fundraising efforts focus on programs designed to promote community, improve livability, and reduce crime. This allows the Sheriff's Office to participate in activities county funds would not otherwise cover.
The foundation sponsors community outreach programs such as our annual Washington County K9 Trials, Shop with a Cop, Back to School with a Deputy, Search and Rescue, and Project Lifesaver.
The foundation consists of board members living or working in Washington County, representing our service areas from neighborhoods, businesses, and community participation organizations. Members are volunteers and local business leaders who donate their time and experience to raising and managing funds for these various programs.
Volunteer board members meet regularly and commit to serving three-year terms.
For more information about the Sheriff’s Office Foundation, please email or visit their website.
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Chaplains can be a helpful presence within our first responder team, offering compassionate support during some of our community's most challenging moments.
WCSO is fortunate to have a dedicated team of volunteer chaplains who are available to offer trauma-informed, culturally competent care to individuals facing mental, emotional, or spiritual crises stemming from any trauma, including the sudden death of a loved one.
Our chaplains serve anyone in distress, acting as “emotional first responders” until family, friends, or other professionals can step in to lend their support.
Chaplains actively counsel Adults in Custody at the Washington County Jail and conduct Bible study classes. They also support the overall well-being of WCSO staff and their families.
A Chaplain must be available and authentic while affirming every life’s inherent dignity by providing each person sincere and relevant support.
To learn more about this program or become a volunteer chaplain, contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Angella Luethe, at 503-846-2525.
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Community Participation Organizations (CPOs) provide a place for neighbors to meet and address local issues through regular community meetings and events.
Your CPO is your community engagement connection to information, people, and opportunities. Be sure to attend and contribute to the decision-making that affects you and your community.
Find out more about your neighborhood CPO. Drop into the next CPO meeting in your area to discover what is happening in your community.
Everyone is welcome!
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The Enhanced Sheriff’s Patrol District (ESPD) Advisory Committee meets to review and offer recommendations to command staff regarding the level and type of law enforcement services provided in the ESPD.
The committee advises the Sheriff on strategic goals and other long-range opportunities to enhance law enforcement and community collaboration.
Since 1987, the ESPD has enhanced patrol response to over 215,000 residents of Washington County's urban unincorporated areas.
ESPD meetings are public and meet bi-monthly on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. For information on this committee or how to join, contact Sharon Gray at 503-846-2506.
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Latino Advisory Committee | |
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The Sheriff’s Office Latino Advisory Commission addresses public safety issues and works to build trust between the Sheriff’s Office and communities of color in Washington County. Strengthening our partnerships with all community members is essential to meet our public safety needs.
For more information about joining the commission, provide public comment, or receive meeting links, contact Sharon Gray at 503-846-2506.
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Start 2025 with Purpose: Join the Washington County Sheriff’s Office
As we kick off a new year, it’s the perfect time to think about your goals—and your career. At the Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO), we’re looking for passionate individuals to join our team and make a difference in their community.
Whether you’re drawn to public safety, community engagement, or behind-the-scenes operations, WCSO offers a wide range of career opportunities.
Our team members enjoy:
- Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits
- Work-life balance with opportunities for growth
- A career with purpose
From sworn deputies to professional staff, every role at WCSO is vital to our mission of keeping Washington County one of the safest urban counties in Oregon.
Ready to make 2025 the year you start a career that matters?
Visit joinwcso.com to learn more and apply today!
Let’s make this year one to remember—together.
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