Volunteering, it’s more than you think!

In existence for 30 years, the Peel Police Auxiliary Unit recently came together for its annual review, at the Emil Kolb Centre for Police Excellence in Mississauga.

Addressing the assembled group of auxiliary members, Deputy Chief Ingrid Berkeley-Brown shared appreciation on behalf of all members of Peel Regional Police. “As an organization, we are fortunate to have such committed, enthusiastic members of our community to call Peel Regional Police Auxiliary Officers. Thank you for all that you do.”

Most people are not familiar with the role of the auxiliary police unit but for officers, these volunteers provide valuable assistance during patrols, R.I.D.E. spot checks, special events such as parades, celebrations and during emergency or disaster situations. Comprised of 110 members, these dedicated residents of Peel Region contributed over twenty-three thousand hours of their own time, to help Peel Regional Police achieve their vision of A Safer Community Together. 

“Having been a resident of Brampton for over 30 years, I feel it’s important to give back to the community” said Steve Shook, a two year member of the auxiliary program. “The officers are absolutely amazing. During the ride-a-longs that I have been on, I have seen the officers perform amazing work and I say that not only as an auxiliary member but as a resident of Peel Region. I am so proud of all of them”.

The annual review does not just bring together all of the auxiliary officers but it also serves as an opportunity to recognize members that have gone beyond. While auxiliary officers are asked to volunteer a minimum of 12 hours per month, Obie Khan has only been an auxiliary officer for 7 months and has contributed over 1100 hours, to help better the community he lives in.

“I want to represent my community and show my large extended family the type of work that officers do on a regular basis. Too often the work goes unnoticed, so I wanted to be a part of this and have the opportunity to be a role model for my nieces and nephews, and to perhaps encourage them to consider policing” said Khan.

To find out more about the Auxiliary Police program and learn how you can be a part of it, visit PeelPolice.ca.