Operation Red Nose kicked off its 17th year in Delta and Richmond last week with the hopes of keeping people safe this holiday season.
The free, seasonal service connects party-goers with volunteer drivers, allowing both them and their vehicles to get home safely. Any donations or tips received from clients stay in the community and go towards local youth and amateur sports.
The campaign kicked off with a special event at the Delta Gymnastics Society on Thursday, in Ladner with a gymnastics demonstration, refreshments and remarks from dignitaries.
“Operation Red Nose is a very important safe driving program that many in our communities of Delta and Richmond have used and relied on for many years,” said Ana Arciniega, executive director of Delta Gymnastics, which is the host and headquarters of the Operation Red Nose Delta-Richmond Campaign.
During the holiday season, an average of 12 road teams of three people are on call each night of the service. They work from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Nov. 30, Dec. 1, 2, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and on New Year’s Eve. Clients can request a ride by calling 604-943-0460.
“This year’s kick off is particularly special because we are honoring one of our hardest working volunteers, local business owner John Holmes,” added coordinator Ellyn Schriber. “Not only has John volunteered every year of Operation Red Nose but has volunteered every night as well. I am so excited Operation Red Nose - National has included him into its exclusive Rudy’s Circle, which acknowledges outstanding volunteerism.”
Volunteer drivers must be between the ages of 19 and 75 with a valid driver’s license. They’re required to complete a free criminal record check form available at www.deltagymnastics.com/operation-red-nose/, which can be brought to a local police detachment.
“We need as many volunteers as possible to help us ensure we can meet the demand for the rides we expect during the holiday season,” Arciniega said. “We urge past volunteers or those that would like to give it a try, to help us this year.”
