The Neighborhood Assistance Officers (NAO) program was established in 1970 as a volunteer group of private citizens assisting Dayton Police officers. It has been a vital part of the Dayton Police Department and City of Dayton--dedicated to improving the quality of life in our community.
NAOs are representatives of the Dayton Police Department who make a valuable contribution based on their knowledge of the community. NAOs volunteer four hours per week and respond to emergency call-outs.
What NAOs Do
Patrol and observe neighborhoods, parks, schools, businesses and City properties, calling in any violations or suspicious activity they observe.
Relieve Dayton Police Officers of non-enforcement duties so officers can quickly respond to emergency and criminal calls.
Assist with traffic control at accidents, fires, crime scenes, emergencies, natural disasters and special events.
Check homes of vacationing residents.
Increase the visibility of the Dayton Police Department to deter crime in neighborhoods.
Report street lights out and street or traffic signs damaged or missing.
Use vehicles and police radios to enhance patrol abilities and to provide communication with dispatch in the event police intervention is required.
NAOs Do Not
Carry weapons
Have any powers to arrest or detain
Assist in dangerous situations
Why Volunteer With the Dayton Police Department?
Training by Dayton Police instructors at no cost
Uniforms are provided
Gain valuable insight into police and community relations
An opportunity to take an active role in your neighborhood
Personal satisfaction of making a difference in your community
Minimum Requirements
At least 21 years of age
Have no felony or misdemeanor convictions involving violence
Have a valid Ohio driver’s license and auto insurance
Commit to 16 hours per month
Complete NAO Training at the Dayton Police Academy
Training
Note: Trainees are required to submit to a background check and provide references prior to starting classes.
NAO trainees are trained in police procedures. NAO trainees also receive Red Cross first aid and CPR training and training in radio communications as well as in-depth instruction in traffic control.
Upon successful completion of the curriculum, trainees graduate and receive their uniforms.
After graduating from the training, new NAOs are paired with more experienced NAO volunteers to gain street experience and knowledge. Even after that, NAOs always perform duty in pairs.
Are you ready to make a difference by volunteering with the Dayton Police Department?
