Dayton Police Volunteers

Neighborhood Assistance Officers


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?
For more information, contact Cynthia August at 937-333-1350.