We know that volunteers are the backbone of any community. Without the efforts of people who donate their time, energy and expertise – asking for nothing but a thank you in return – many vital organizations and agencies would simply cease to function. In our third annual Our People, Our Peninsula feature, Peace Arch News is profiling seven volunteers whose efforts are making a meaningful difference in their community.
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‘Peace, security and happiness for the community is important to me, which is why I enjoy volunteering with the White Rock Detachment of the RCMP,” explains Doug Woodroff.
Woodroff, who has dedicated the past five years to helping out with Community Policing efforts in the city, is one of more than 30 committed volunteers who collectively contribute thousands of hours to the cause, carrying out more than 20 crime-prevention initiatives, according to the City of White Rock’s website.
Among his volunteer duties, Woodroff divides his time between going on patrol, on the lookout for possible stolen vehicles, and engaging with the community to provide safety tips and information.
Prior to coming to White Rock, he volunteered with the Surrey RCMP, so with his considerable experience in the field, it’s only natural that he would become a mentor to many new volunteers.
“Quick to respond to any tasks that may need to be done, whether out in the community or in the detachment, Doug is our primary volunteer contact for the Stolen Auto Recovery Program and encourages other volunteers to join him on as needed,” says Romy DeVries, victim services/crime prevention co-ordinator with the White Rock RCMP.
“Doug makes it a priority to speak with business owners in the area to assist with any issues they may be having and directing them to the resources they may need.”
Woodroff’s positive and energetic personality are another large part of why Community Policing loves having him as part of its team of volunteers, says DeVries.
For his part, Woodroff finds time spent volunteering brings its own rewards.
“Besides the interesting activities we are involved with, which allows one to “get out and about,” and the appreciation we receive from the citizens of White Rock, with those ‘thumbs up’ and ‘waves,’ as we are out there in the community, it is fun to share the time with like-minded members of our team,” he says.
“Chance encounters with the public, good laughs, and camaraderie, are all part of the fun. I mostly enjoy knowing that, perhaps with my efforts, I make a positive difference in someone’s day, through giving back to our community.”