Saanich Police Department Volunteer Program

ACE Mascot Team 

Ace Team members will be assigned to different events by the Volunteer Coordinator. Ace Team members will then be responsible for attending the event and representing the Saanich Police Department by adhering to the Ace Mascot training guide and the Volunteer Policy Manual.

A Volunteer Handler always accompanies the Ace Mascot. The Volunteer Handler position also has its own manual and guidelines. Other Volunteer Handler roles may be more duty specific including:

• Event Coordinator
• Social media posts

A minimum one-year volunteer commitment required.

The Ace Mascot volunteer will:

• Be on time and leave enough time to retrieve the costume, dress and be at an event at the requested time.
• Adhere strictly to the Ace Mascot guide with regards to behaviour and rules outlined within.
• Ensure that all guidelines for their own health and safety is observed i.e. not staying in the costume too long without a break.
• Alert the Coordinator of Volunteers of any occurrence that may have taken place at an event that could lead to further actions or require action.
• Ensure the Ace costume is place back properly and securely in accordance with the Ace manual.
• Send a report to the Coordinator of Volunteers about the event that can then be placed in Ace’s file to maintain a record of deployment.
• Respond to the Event Coordinator in a timely fashion.
• Have fun.

Ace’s Handler will:

• Be on time and leave enough time to retrieve the costume, assist in the dressing and be at an event at the requested time.
• Respond to the Event Coordinator in a timely fashion.
• Make handling Ace the priority, do NOT look at phones, engage in conversations outside of Ace duties or walk away and leave Ace alone.
• Ensure that all guidelines for Ace’s health and safety are followed. Ensure Ace does not fall downstairs, trip over small children, etc.
• Ensure that the Ace Mascot handler guidelines followed.
• Ensure that the costume is placed back correctly and securely in accordance with the Ace Manual.
• Look for people who may want to approach Ace but are afraid to, and likewise, steer Ace away from people who may be distressed by them.
• Have fun.

Qualifications

• Minimum age 16 years old.
• Interested in and committed to promoting a positive image for the Saanich Police Department.
• Enthusiastic and community minded.
• Able to work respectfully and collaboratively with other volunteers and members of the public.
• Criminal Record Check required (no fee).
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Adhere to the policy and procedures manual.
• Sense of humour.

Crime Watch Team

Working in the community our Crime Watch volunteers help to make our neighbourhoods safer through programs such as Speed Watch, Cell Watch and Lock Out Auto Crime.

Speed Watch: The Speed Watch Program consists of trained volunteers posted to various locations throughout the community to conduct traffic surveys. Using an electronic Speed Reader Board, Volunteers monitor vehicle traffic in high crash intersections, residential, school and park areas. From this information the Volunteers comprise data including the volume of traffic, average speeds, number of drivers exceeding the speed limit and the speed which they were traveling. The volunteers gather information only and do not do traffic enforcement.

Cell Watch: The Cell Watch Program consists of trained volunteers going to high-volume traffic intersections to observe and document signs of distracted driving. With this information warning letters are sent to the registered owners. Signs are placed to assist in the public education component of the program. This program is for the gathering of information, not enforcement.

Lock Out Auto Crime: Volunteers check parked vehicles to ensure that they are locked, and no valuables are in sight. A Crime Prevention Notice, noting the results of the audit, is left on the windshield. This program includes an active “field” component wherein the Crime Watch volunteers patrol streets and/or parking lots. Crime Watch Notices are completed. These highlight measures the vehicle owner can take to avoid being victimized.

Qualifications 

• Must be 18 or older.
• Must be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident.
• Criminal Record Check required.
• Must have valid class 5 BC driver’s licence.
• Clear Drivers Abstract (Requested on ICBC's website free of charge).
• Must be a team player.
• Possess good verbal, written and interpersonal skills.
• Willing to commit to minimum one year.
• Willing to commit to 3 hours per week.

Community Events Team

The Community Events Team plays a crucial role in supporting the Saanich Police Department and enhancing community safety and engagement. These dedicated individuals contribute their time and skills to various initiatives, programs, and events aimed at fostering positive relationships between the police and the community.

Volunteers participate in community events, fairs, and safety campaigns, helping to promote awareness around crime prevention and community safety initiatives.

By engaging in these activities, Saanich Police Volunteers help to build trust and collaboration between the police and the community, ultimately contributing to a safer and more connected environment for all residents. Their service reflects a commitment to public safety and community well-being, helping to ensure that the Saanich area remains a welcoming and secure place to live.

Qualifications: 

• Must be 18 or older.
• Must be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident.
• Criminal Record Check required.
• Must have valid class 5 BC drivers licence.
• Clear Drivers Abstract (Can be requested on ICBC's website free of charge).
• Must be a team player.
• Possess good verbal, written and interpersonal skills.
• Willing to commit to minimum one year.
• Willing to commit to 3 hours per week.

Special Project Team

The Saanich Police Community Safety Office is seeking dedicated volunteers to join our Special Projects Team. This team plays a vital role in enhancing community safety, fostering neighborhood connections, and promoting public awareness. Volunteers will have the opportunity to engage in various initiatives, including Block Watch coordination, social media outreach, the Safe Place program, special projects through out the community and administrative duties. 

Key Responsibilities:

Block Watch Volunteer Coordinator:

• Assist in the recruitment, training, and support of Block Watch captains and members.
• Distribute materials related to Block Watch initiatives and maintain communication with participants.
• Collaborate with local law enforcement to share updates and resources.

Social Media:

• Assist in managing the Community Safety Office’s social media accounts
  (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram).
• Create engaging content to raise awareness about community safety initiatives, events, and resources.
• Monitor social media interactions and respond to community inquiries in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with the team to develop campaigns that promote public safety and community engagement.

Safe Place Program:

• Support the implementation and promotion of the Safe Place program, which provides safe havens for individuals in crisis.
• Work with local businesses and organizations to educate them about the program and encourage participation.
• Assist in the development of outreach materials to inform the community about the Safe Place program.
• Coordinate events and training sessions for participating businesses.

Administrative Duties:

• Provide general administrative support to the Special Projects Team as needed.
• Maintain records of volunteer activities, community engagement initiatives, and program outcomes.
• Assist in the preparation of reports and presentations for community stakeholders.
• Help with scheduling meetings, coordinating events, and communicating with team members and the public.
  
• Community Safety Office front desk 
  

Special Projects:

• Attend and help with special project throughout the community including Smile Cookie Campaign, Tim Hortons Camp Day, Home Depot Kids Craft Day, Charity Runs and more.

Qualifications:

• Must be18 or older.
• Must be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident.
• Criminal Record Check required.
• Passion for community safety and public service.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Basic knowledge of social media platforms and their use for community engagement.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Previous experience in community service, volunteer coordination, or related fields is an asset.
• Willing to commit to minimum one year.
• Willing to commit to 3 hours per week.