It's another sign the Christmas season is upon us.
The annual Operation Red Nose campaign, which makes sure holiday revelers have a safe ride home, starts tonight.
Since 2002, the Delta Gymnastics Society has been the local host of the award-winning national program that strives to keep the roads safe during the holiday season while at the same time supporting amateur youth sport in the community.
This year Operation Red Nose, in partnership with ICBC, CTV, Richmond RCMP, Delta police and many local sponsors, will service the communities of Delta and Richmond on Nov. 29, 30, Dec. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21 and 31 between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m.
All sponsorships and donations will be directed to the Delta Sports Development Centre, helping youth in the community. Last year, 409 volunteers helped provide 667 safe rides home, driving over 21,000 kilometres over the course of nine nights.
The service has been running for 30 years nationally and in the Delta-Richmond area for the last 12 years.
Even with the campaign underway, Operation Red Nose is still looking for volunteers.
"On any given year, we need over 400 volunteers to provide nine nights of safe driving. This year, we estimate we need another 50 volunteers to keep up with the demand," said local co-ordinator Carlene Lewall.
"We want to encourage our community to help us keep our roads and families safe by supporting this program. Invite your spouse, co-workers or friends to come one night and drive people to and from your community."
Volunteers are sent out in teams of three, so newbies are usually paired with more experienced volunteers, Lewall said.
Lewall added they especially need volunteers for New Year's Eve. Operation Red Nose hosts a special dinner and celebration for its volunteers before they head out that night.
"It really is a great way to spend the evening," she said.
More information can also be found online at www.operationrednosedelta.com, by calling Delta Gymnastics at 604-943-0460 or email [email protected]. To book a safe ride home, call 604-943-0460.
