There’s a common saying often repeated by volunteers: You get back more than you give.

Minnetonka Police Reserve Mary Pat Noonan says she finds that true every day. “That formula always adds up to a net gain for me.”

Noonan joined the police reserves seven years ago after learning about the program through the Minnetonka Police Academy. A clinical psychologist at a pain management clinic, Noonan has found passion in the volunteer role, as a way to serve the police department and the Minnetonka community she loves.

As a police reserve, Noonan says her job is to ease the workload of department staff. She helps however she can – from fingerprinting civilians to picking up uniforms, driving squad cars in for repairs to working traffic detail at community events.

“[Our role is] being there in any way we possibly can to support police officers [and] admin staff. And every week, it’s something a little different,” Noonan says.

That variety, along with the program’s extensive training opportunities, has given Noonan a unique perspective into the department’s operations. She’s used her knowledge to dispel myths about law enforcement in her full-time work and among her neighborhood.

Because of her work as a police reserve, Noonan was also asked to joined the Metro CISM Team, a nonprofit organization that provides trained peer support to emergency responders following critical stress incidents.

“Mary Pat is the type of volunteer that departments love to have,” says Capt. Rachel Meehan. “She’s hardworking, open minded, supportive and not afraid to offer a different perspective. She has helped us build bridges and strengthen relationships with our community.”

Want to learn more about the Minnetonka Police Reserves? Visit minnetonkamn.gov/reserves.