Volunteer Chaplains

Chaplains are First to Serve

Being a chaplain is about showing up—especially when life is at its hardest. Whether standing beside a first responder after a critical incident, supporting a family through sudden loss, or comforting someone in the midst of crisis, chaplains offer a steady presence when it's needed most. We don’t come with all the answers. We come with compassion, faith, and the commitment to simply be there.

Chaplains serve as emotional and spiritual anchors for those who face trauma on a regular basis—police officers, firefighters, dispatchers, and the people they protect. We provide confidential support, listen without judgment, and respond with empathy. Sometimes our role is to pray; other times it’s to advocate, to connect someone with resources, or to quietly walk with them through the storm.

At its core, chaplaincy is a ministry of presence. It's about being available, being trustworthy, and being willing to enter into the hardest spaces of human experience with grace and humility. Every call, every conversation, and every quiet moment is an opportunity to bring comfort, hope, and dignity to those who serve—and those they serve.

What are the requirements?

Our volunteer chaplains serve on the front lines of care, typically committing to two 12-hour shifts per month and attending one monthly training meeting. All chaplains must pass a background check with the Fresno Police Department and complete onboarding before serving. If you have a heart for people and a desire to walk alongside those in crisis, we invite you to explore becoming a chaplain with us. It’s a unique and meaningful way to make a difference in our community.