The mission of VCPI is to advance community policing in order to build safer communities and improve the quality of life throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. The institute provides training and technical assistance for Virginia's law enforcement officials and communities that help to build integrated, proactive approaches to community policing initiatives. This is accomplished through the application of crime prevention techniques, problem solving strategies, and establishment of community partnerships.

VCPI is a statewide resource for law enforcement, citizens, local government officials, and others interested in community policing. Community policing is intended to reduce crime and disorder through a working partnership between law enforcement and communities, in which problems can be identified and solved.