Volunteers Build Bridges
The contribution to community safety by Toronto Police Service volunteers is truly unparalleled, said Deputy Chief Lauren Pogue at the Service’s Volunteer Appreciation ceremony on April 30 at Toronto Police College.
“You are all an exceptional team whose contributions are vital to the success of our service and the well-being of our communities,” she noted. “Your collective efforts are indispensable to our operations and profoundly impact the communities we serve. I know that every one of our volunteers benefits from their volunteering experiences in different ways, including the opportunity to make a positive difference and to strengthen ties.”
National Volunteer Week is celebrated from April 27 to May 3. The theme of this year’s event is ‘Volunteers Make Waves.’
“You all create currents of change that impact our communities,” said Pogue. “This theme truly symbolizes that every decision we make carries the possibility to touch the lives of so many others in positive ways. When we have a positive impact, it in turn influences others to do the same, creating that ripple effect of positive change within our neighbourhoods.
“Volunteering is a driven desire to give back, support others and make a difference. When we all come together to improve our communities, there is a sense of pride and ownership fostered. Building bridges between people of different backgrounds, sharing a vision, respect and a mutual understanding. What is often overlooked is the opportunity to expand social networks through partnerships and to create lasting relationships.”
Toronto Police Service Board Chair Shelley Carroll reminded the volunteers that their contributions are vital to the Service and the community.
“The Board wholeheartedly supports and applauds your dedication and hard work, and we are also pleased to have contributed financially to tonight’s celebration,” she said. “We owe you a profound debt of gratitude. Your dedication and generosity are felt in so many ways, enriching society and empowering our communities. You bring kindness, compassion and a unique connection to all of the segments of our city, often reaching people and groups we may otherwise not have access to.
“Each day, through your actions, you show us what it means to give freely and without expectation. Your contributions span every corner of this city – no matter where you come from or what your background is, you all bring a wealth of skills, experiences, and perspectives. You volunteer because you care deeply about the quality of life in our neighbourhoods. You give of your time and energy, often making personal sacrifices in your professional and family lives, without hesitation or complaint. Your commitment is a true testament to your love for your community, and for that, we are incredibly grateful.”
Several awards were presented at the annual ceremony.
Frances Sanderson, the Service’s Aboriginal Consultative Committee co-chair, was the recipient of the Legacy Award.
Through her wisdom, guidance and ongoing commitment, she has helped the Toronto Police Service enhance its service delivery and engagement with Indigenous peoples.
“We sincerely thank you for your invaluable impact on our organization,” said Pogue, who made the presentation. “You are a trusted advisor, patient and full of wisdom and a true friend to the Aboriginal Peacekeeping Unit. Without you, we would not succeed in our outreach and engagement to build trust with the community.”
A former Chief Consultative Committee member, Sanderson is the Executive Director of Nishnawbe Homes, a non-profit organization helping provide safe and secure housing to the Indigenous Community.
Auxiliary Officer Jared Bernatt was honoured with the James Carnegie Memorial Award, which is presented to an Auxiliary member who demonstrates outstanding leadership skills and proven commitment to the community.
The award honours the legacy of the organization’s first Auxiliary member whose community involvement was extensive and distinguished for four decades before his passing in November 1996.
Bernatt joined the Auxiliary program three years ago.
“It is so important to give back, and I am honoured to be a recipient of this honour,” he said. “Being an Auxiliary member gives me a great opportunity to serve with Toronto Police and give back to the community. It is a privilege.”
Bernatt has made a significant impact in 52 Division.
Whether participating in crime prevention or community engagement initiatives or providing support at major events like the St. Patrick's Day Parade, he consistently delivers exceptional service.
“Jared's enthusiasm for the Auxiliary program and his dedication to his fellow members is evident,” said Superintendent Ron Khan, who made the presentation. “He has mentored several recruits and developed training programs for them.”
Auxiliary Staff Sergeant Colin Sanderson, of 22 Division, was presented the Chief’s Award.
The Award was created in 2013 by the Community Partnerships & Engagement Unit (CPEU) to honour an Auxiliary member who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to community service.
“Colin has utilized his outstanding leadership skills to build a team of enthusiastic and engaged Auxiliary members,” noted Acting Inspector Dan Pravica. “He is universally well-liked and respected and he takes pride in having mentored many Auxiliary members who have pursued careers in policing.”
Community Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) members Peter Themeliopoulos and Paul Steinberg were the recipients of the John Herra Memorial Award presented to community volunteers who display leadership and commitment.
A dedicated member of 55 Division CPLC for the last three decades, Themeliopoulos played a vital role in the establishment of the Valerie Mah student bursary, helping raise over $50,000.
The Division’s CPLC civilian co-chair started volunteering in high school.
“He was recruited by retired officer Bill Wardle while he was a student at East York Collegiate,” said Inspector Michael Hayles who made the presentation. “From the onset, he sought ways to build bridges between the student body, the administration and the local police division. To this day, he is the strongest advocate for youth engagement.”
Steinberg is a member of the 43 Division CPLC.
“Through his leadership and dedication, Paul has been outstanding in advancing the cause of volunteerism,” said Acting Superintendent Ryan Forde.
Herra, a Toronto Police Service Auxiliary officer, retired as an Inspector in 1996 after 14 years of community service.
Five, 10 and 15-year pins were distributed to 44 volunteers from across the service, including Community Consultative Committee (CCC) and CPLC members who help inform the police about community needs,
Chaplains Wendell Gibbs, Jane Archer and Rabbi Ronald Weiss, who provide faith support to TPS members, were also recognized.
The Red Bear Singers performed at the event where Acting Superintendent Anthony Paoletta was the Master of Ceremony.
Sherene Jattan and Constable Andrew Robrook led the CPEU team that co-ordinated the event.
Learn more about volunteer opportunities at www.tps.ca/volunteer
