While new regulations for volunteer background checks have added some red tape to the process, Operation Red Nose and the Abbotsford Police are letting potential volunteers know they shouldn’t be discouraged.
Local non-profit sport organization, PacificSport Fraser Valley is preparing to host the seasonal safe-ride-home program for the 17th consecutive year in Abbotsford and Mission.
Abbotsford Police Const. Ian MacDonald said the new process adds some additional pages to be filled out for those volunteers who may be in contact with children, the elderly, disabled persons or other potentially vulnerable contacts. This includes ORN drivers.
The $27 cost of the background checks for ORN’s volunteers is still covered by the APD, which values the work of ORN.
“The Abbotsford Police Department is a huge supporter of Operation Red Nose,” said Const. Ian MacDonald.
“We appreciate the amazing commitment made by the numerous volunteers who work to keep our community safe during the holiday season. Giving people an opportunity to celebrate with friends and family and to have their vehicle driven home by a sober driver is not just a great option; it is a priceless contribution to the safety of our roadways.”
The Operation Red Nose service is offered on nine evenings this season: Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 & 31.
That amounts to an estimated 600 volunteer shifts that need to be filled.
To volunteer as a driver, navigator or phone operators please call 604-746-0601, email Abbotsford-mission@operationrednose.com or download the volunteer application package from www.pacificsportfraservalley.com.