The VIPS program is made possible through the federal Volunteers in Police Service Program (VIPS) created in the aftermath of the 911 terrorist attacks in conjunction with increased Homeland Security. The program is Marana's first, although not new to Arizona retirement communities. Volunteer civilians patrol Dove Mountain and surrounding areas.  There is also programs in Sun City Vistoso and in the Sun Cities northwest of Phoenix. 

VIPS are not substitutes for sworn police officers but are trained to be eyes and ears for the police department and the community. They assist the police department with activities that are not of a criminal nature. The VIPS help with parking and crowd control at events like the child safety programs, seasonal community events, school events and special community projects such as bike races. When traffic incidents or bad weather knock out traffic lights or close roadways, specially trained VIPS assist with traffic control.