No you don't. The NLPOA is open to any person that wishes to join and shares the same goals of the association. Associate, Corporate and Regular memberships are available. To be a Regular member a person needs to be a sworn officer of a Local, State or National Law Enforcement Agency. All other members qualify for Associate or Corporate.
No, assistance is provided to any community were a chapter is located. The emphasis in the beginning was in the Hispanic Community because the need was greatest there to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the citizens. Since the early days of the association the NLPOA has been involved in educating children, sponsoring charity events and providing scholarships to students wishing to further their education. Race is not a factor when determining assistance, the only thing that is considered is the need of those that are to be assisted.
The NLPOA is a labor organization that is first concerned with the fair treatment of its members by the agency that employs the member through legal representation and departmental representatives. Second the NLPOA is concerned with bettering the community where its chapter is located and where its members call home. And finally the association believes that not only should it give to the community but also to its members that make the goals of the association a successful. Providing its members with family gatherings and activities is one way to keep the bond between members strong and positive.
The National Latino Peace Officers Association is a national organization with chapters from California to New York. NLPOA-Greater Dallas Chapter is a member of the National Chapter and therefore has representation and guidance from the National Chapter when needed. The National Chapter is associated with other nationwide groups and organizations that it works with hand in hand to improve services and benefits for al membees.
The NLPOA has been successful in changing policies for its members in every chapter, bridging the gap between communities and law enforcement and being a self supported national organization. Thousands of scholarships have been awarded nationally through all chapters and that number continues to grow. The purpose of this organization has been accomplished and new goals are developed yearly in ways to make this a stronger and more powerful association, not only nationally but locally.
Membership applications may be obtained by contacting any board member, station representative or phoning the office at (214) 428-1710.