WESTLOCK – For 30 years, Westlock Community Victim Services has supported local residents, helping thousands during a time of tragedy and trauma.
The non-profit organization marked its 30-year milestone last week, in partnership with Westlock RCMP and welcomed hundreds for a summer celebration and barbecue Aug. 26 at the Westlock RCMP detachment.
The event had activities for the whole family including a caricature artist, sparkle cheeks tattoos and an opportunity to dunk-a-cop, in addition to featuring several RCMP special services such as the RCMP race car that is part of the Yield program, RCMP Air Services and RCMP Dog Services.
“This community is amazing for the support that they provide us,” said Westlock Community Victim Services Unit program manager Leah Breckenridge. “It was fantastic to see the number of people come and enjoy this with us and celebrate.
“Three decades is simply amazing as a non-profit that is largely volunteer driven,” she added. “Thirty years — I couldn’t even imagine the number of hours that have been provided by our volunteers in that length of time. It’s amazing to celebrate them.”
Westlock RCMP Staff Sgt. Al Baird noted the important role victim services has for both the detachment and the community at large.
“The victim services is a huge help to the detachment. They’re such that when we investigate criminal activity and there’s tragedy involved, whether it be property offences (or) person offences, the victim services unit is able to step in and act as a liaison while we process the matter and go through court,” said Baird. “They also help to talk them through the court process and also help them find financial compensation if it is applicable in their case.”
The men and women who volunteer for the Westlock Community Victim Services Unit help ensure “that victims know what’s going on and they’re not forgotten about and they have representation,” noted Baird.
Westlock mayor Ralph Leriger was one of hundreds of local residents celebrating the anniversary on Friday. He also noted the important role the WCVSU has in Westlock.
“It is really important,” said Leriger. “These people are working really hard for the benefit of all, and our community always, whether it’s COP victim services or the RCMP in general, our community’s behind them and demonstrates that every day.”
Baird noted the WCVSU’s dedication in serving the people of Westlock and outlying communities over the past three decades will help them continue to do so in future years.
“It’s nice to see that they’re strong and they’re continuing on. They’ve got 30 years under their belt, and we look forward to the next milestone,” said Baird. “They’ll keep going and keep helping the citizens of the area.”
