Operation Red Nose is off and running in Delta and Richmond.
The free service, which provides a safe ride home after holiday partying, begins another season this weekend.
During 2015, the local chapter of the national program saw 392 volunteers provide 592 rides over nine nights, clocking more than 20,000 kilometres.
Delta Gymnastics kicked off the 15th annual campaign with an event in Ladner last Friday recognizing sponsors and community supporters, including the Corporation of Delta, Delta police, ICBC and the provincial government.
"I think we all know what Delta Gymnastics brings to this community and the fact that Delta Gymnastics uses Operation Red Nose not only as a fundraiser, but as a service to this community is fabulous," said Delta South MLA Vicki Huntington. "It is a wonderful thing to volunteer, so get involved."
Delta police Insp. Varun Naidu said the department loves being a partner.
"We are kicking off our CounterAttack programs as well, so for every weekend moving forward for the next couple of months you will see us out there as well. Let's rally the troops and get our volunteers in place," he said.
John Holmes, owner of Hawaiian Beach Tanning Salon in Ladner and a sponsor of the campaign, has been volunteering for 15 years - every night of the campaign each year.
"I just feel that we are helping the kids to form good character and personalities. It's helping the people who have been out enjoying the festivities and gets them home safely and the travelling public who might be impacted by an accident involving a drunk driver," Holmes said.
"I think the second time I was out I came across a serious accident and that made me realize that this is why you are doing this. I get a great deal of satisfaction. It's not hard work and it's a lot of fun - you meet some nice people."
Volunteer teams will be available to drive people and their vehicles safely home from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Nov. 25 and 26 and Dec. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17 and 31. Call 604-943-0460 to request a ride.
Volunteers are still needed for this year's campaign. For more information, contact Delta Gymnastics at 604-943-0460 or email [email protected].
