Help Wanted: Redmond Police & Fire Chaplains

When it comes to First Responders arriving at a police or fire call, their response can often seem routine before moving on to the next call. However, one of the most important responders to families, friends, and victims are volunteer Department Chaplains, and Redmond is seeking more.

While the title “chaplain” is often equated with faith or religion, chaplains are more than that. In fact, anything faith-based only occurs if the person requests it, realistically making chaplains “Crisis Intervention Specialists” trained to help stabilize a crisis for those affected.

Redmond volunteer chaplains support people in four ways:   1) Practical support, 2) Emotional support, 3) Relationship support, and 4) Spiritual support (upon request). They serve as advocates by calming down those affected and helping to discover and connect them to available resources.

Although chaplains may be one of the first responders called to a scene and the last one to leave, they spend much of their time with Police and Fire Departments personnel building relationships and supporting them through personal and professional challenges.

The Redmond Chaplain program has existed since 1985 with the Fire Department, and the Police began using the same volunteer chaplains in 1998. Redmond Police and Fire are seeking qualified clergy to be involved. Training and necessary equipment is provided for interested applicants. The application process includes attending a chaplain academy, background check, interview process, and appointment by the Chiefs.

A successful chaplain should be prepared to:

1.    Network – knowing resources throughout the area to refer people.

2.    Train – ongoing training to keep skills sharp.

3.    Build rapport with first responders.

4.    Be available; know that you may be called at any time on any day.

For information regarding the volunteer application process and requirements, visit www.redmond.gov/police. If you have questions for a current Chaplain, contact Volunteer Coordinator Nicole Rogers at 425-556-2632.

Source: Redmond Police Department