FRAMINGHAM, MA - The Framingham Auxiliary Police announced today that they will be holding an open house on Monday, November 7, 2005; 7:30 PM at the Framingham Police Station, One William Welch Way, Framingham. The purpose of the open house is to provide information to people who may have an interest in participating in Homeland Security and Public Safety by becoming a member of the Framingham Auxiliary Police.

The Framingham Auxiliary Police is a VOLUNTEER organization that has been assisting the Framingham Police Department for over 63 years. Membership in the Framingham Auxiliary Police provides a means for residents of Framingham to make their town a safer and better place to live and work.

The Framingham Auxiliary Police is a component of Framingham Emergency Management, and is trained and prepared to assist our community in the event of an emergency or disaster. Recent disaster events caused by hurricanes in the Gulf States reinforces the need to have additional trained personnel available when disaster strikes. The Framingham Auxiliary Police assisted with the recent flooding incident in town.

Captain Marc Spigel, Commanding Officer of the Framingham Auxiliary Police, stated that: "We are currently looking for residents of Framingham who have a strong interest and commitment to community service in the areas of Homeland Security and Public Safety".

The Framingham Auxiliary Police collectively provide over 4,000 hours of community service each year to the town. Our community service includes activities such as weekend patrols, assisting at the police station, road races, (including the Boston Marathon), Concerts on the Green, and the annual Flag Day parade.

The Framingham Auxiliary Police also sponsors a child safety program each year, which to date has educated the families of over 7,500 children from our community. The Framingham Auxiliary Police has received Presidential Service Awards for their community service and commitment during 2003 and 2004.

If you are interested in community service, over 21 years old, a US citizen, have no criminal record, and have been a resident of Framingham for over six months you are invited to attend the open house. Applications will be available at the open house for interested residents. All applicants will be subject to an entrance examination, interviews and background verification. All new members will be expected to complete a 200 hour academy training program, and commit to between 15 and 20 hours of community service each month.

###