Police support International Volunteer Day

Last Wednesday was International Volunteer Day, and York Regional Police is among the organizations recognizing it.

This year's theme is Volunteers Grow Community.

International Volunteer Day takes place Dec 5 each year and is officially recognized by the United Nations as a day on which volunteers around the world are recognized and celebrated for their contributions and dedication.

This year, Volunteer Canada's campaign is dedicated to generating awareness and interest in Canadian volunteers who work toward making life better for others and to inspire others to get involved to do their part to make the world a safer, healthier place. International Volunteer Day offers an opportunity for volunteer organizations and individual volunteers around the world to highlight their contributions - at local, national and international levels.

Police in York celebrate and appreciate the many hours volunteers contribute to their organization and the community at large. Members of the community give more than 70,000 hours a year volunteering for the police auxiliary unit, ceremonial unit, chaplains, male chorus, pipes and drums and venturers, as well as staffing the three Community Policing Centres and the Community Safety Village. The activities of volunteers are as varied as the skills and talent they possess.

In addition, many officers and civilian members volunteer their time within the community.

"On behalf of all members of York Regional Police I am proud of our members and our community volunteers who dedicate themselves to the task of helping others," said Chief Armand La Barge. "They are a testament to York Regional Police and bring to life our motto Deeds Speak."