The Delta Police Department is supported by over 250 volunteers.
With programs spread across the municipality, the department has volunteers working on a number of fronts, everything from community police stations to reserve constables.
Community police stations feature at least a dozen programs that offer volunteering opportunities. These range from Child Find, which provides documentation for parents of young children, to Community Crime Watch, a volunteer-run patrol on Friday and Saturday nights that reports suspicious activity to police.
"It's a really good, high visibility crime prevention," A/Sgt. Cathy Geddes said of Community Crime Watch, "especially when we just don't have the manpower."
There are also several programs where ICBC works with volunteers to prevent speeding, cellphone use while driving and auto theft.
Delta is also one of the only communities to offer a program like the Citizens Are Security Active. Upon request, volunteers will conduct security checks on homes for residents while they are away on vacation or for an extended period of time.
As well, department volunteers offer support to victims of crime and trauma. Along with initial assistance, volunteers provide victims with a walk through of the criminal justice system, sharing updates about court charges, how to write impact statements and applying for financial support.
"It's more than being a listening ear, it's being someone to trust," said Kim Gramlich, coordinator of the victim services unit. "It's just educating them on what's going on in our justice system."
Delta police also runs a reserve program where volunteers are trained to participate in community policing and crime prevention alongside officers. Volunteers commit at least 16 hours every month to training, patrols, and participating in community events and meetings.
