Volunteer programs in police departments are most successful when efforts are made to mirror the paramilitary structure of the organization. This ensures credibility, respect and acceptance. We have standard operating procedures for everything from computer access to termination procedures to recognition ceremonies and produce forms, forms, forms for everything! Primary resistance to volunteers in policing rests with confidentiality and liability issues. Labor issues are also obstacles to the involvement of volunteers. A significant volunteer contribution can represent a creative approach to marshaling resources but there may also be the perception that volunteer involvement will make justifying the need for additional sworn or civilian paid staff difficult, if not impossible.