SCOPE MEMBERS MIKE AND KATHY HARDING ARE ASSISTING A RESIDENT AT THE DON PEDRO HEALTH FAIR WITH AQUIRING A REFLECTIVE HOUSE SIGN FOR HER PROPERTY. SCOPE MAKES THESE FOR $15. In 1993, under the direction of Sheriff Roger Matlock, the Sheriff’s Community Organized Policing Effort (SCOPE) was established. The SCOPE program was designed to assist and support the sheriff’s office in carrying out its duties and responsibilities through the use of volunteers. Over the last 17 years, SCOPE has proven to be an irreplacable partner to public safety agencies and has dedicated countless hours to serving the needs of the county and its members.

Although the philosophy and spirit of SCOPE has not changed since its inception, the diversity of its membership and array of services provided by the organization has changed substantially. When the SCOPE program was first unveiled, the focus of responsibilities was limited to home security checks and clerical duties. However, as membership within the organization increased the opportunity to expand services also expanded. Today, SCOPE members are involved in a wide array of activities and the request for additional services grows annually. With this demand in services comes a need for new volunteers who desire to work alongside law enforcement professionals and serve the members of Mariposa County’s communities.

SCOPE has an activity for just about everyone, whether they enjoy young people, the elderly or animals. SCOPE actively participates in a variety of carnivals and youth events throughout the county. SCOPE also assists with school athletic activities and community sports programs.

Members help with rabies clinics, dog licensing and assists with animal evacuation during emergencies. SCOPE works with the senior center to provide senior discount cards and provides equipment and support for Project Lifesaver. SCOPE patrols give extra “eyes and ears” to the sheriff’s department that helps deter criminal activity.

In 2009, SCOPE members volunteered over 30,000 hours assisting the sheriff with duties that included livescan/fingerprinting, making ID cards for county employees, evidence transportation, business and vacation house checks, traffic control and the staffing of the Greeley Hill substation. Other community events in which SCOPE participates include the Mariposa County Fair, senior health fair, gem and mineral show, Christmas parade, Coyote Howl, Butterfly Festival, Relay for Life and music on the green.

During times of emergency and natural disaster, SCOPE plays a vital role by assisting with evacuation efforts, providing security and furnishing escorts for residents into restricted areas.

SCOPE is looking for new members. Applicants must be a US citizen, resident of Mariposa County and at least 21-years-old. At this time SCOPE members range in age from 40 to 80. After acceptance by the SCOPE board of directors and passing a criminal background check, new members must achieve proficiency in radio operations, CPR and first aid. Training sessions are held monthly to help SCOPE members maintain proficiency in all their duties.

Anyone interested in becoming involved and who has at least 12 hours a month to give can take advantage of joining SCOPE. Information is available at the Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office during business hours or at the Greeley Hill substation on Mondays and Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, call SCOPE Coordinator Susan Bramson at (209) 606-9039.