Lethbridge Police Welcomes Volunteers for Crisis Support Role The Lethbridge Police Service is accepting volunteer applications for its annual crisis support worker program, providing vital after‑care for crime victims and expanding community outreach. The Lethbridge Police Service is now accepting applications for its annual volunteer crisis support worker program, a role that has been a cornerstone of the department's community outreach for more than three decades. Volunteers in this capacity provide the indispensable bridge between law enforcement and the individuals affected by violent or traumatic incidents. Their responsibilities encompass on‑scene assistance during emergency calls, delivering after‑care services that address immediate emotional and psychological needs, and offering guidance in the lead‑up to court proceedings where victims or witnesses must testify.Cat Pooley Highlights Volunteer BenefitsBy extending the police's reach beyond traditional shift hours, these volunteers enable the department to maintain a continuous 24‑hour support system, a vital resource for victims who may otherwise feel isolated and underserved. The program's benefits extend beyond just community support. Cat Pooley, the manager of the victim/witness services unit, highlighted how involvement can serve as a unique apprenticeship for those considering careers in law enforcement or counseling."If you're looking to be a future police officer, this is experience you can get nowhere else," Pooley explained. "If you're thinking you want to be a counsellor, the opportunity to sit in grief and trauma with someone is an opportunity to really stretch your wings a little and see if this is the right fit for you. " Participants receive comprehensive training that covers trauma‑informed care, crisis de‑escalation, legal protocols, and confidentiality standards.This rigorous preparation ensures volunteers can respond with sensitivity and professionalism during some of the most emotionally charged moments in community policing. The volunteer cohort is diverse, ranging from recent graduates to seasoned professionals who simply wish to give back to Lethbridge.Eligibility Criteria For VolunteersThose motivated by a desire to help others rather than a pursuit of career advancement are equally welcomed, provided they meet the basic eligibility criteria: a minimum age of 18, a clean criminal record, and the capacity to commit to scheduled shifts and specialized training sessions. Applications are filed through the police service's online portal, where interested individuals can submit their personal information, work history, and a brief statement of their motivation for joining.Once accepted, volunteers join a team that works closely with law enforcement officers, mental health professionals, and community organisations to create a supportive network for victims of crime. This initiative underscores the Lethbridge Police Service's commitment to holistic, community‑based policing. By harnessing the energy and empathy of volunteers, the department not only enhances the quality of care provided to victims but also strengthens ties with residents, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and resilience.As the city continues to grow, the volunteer crisis support worker program stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit that propels Lethbridge forward, ensuring safety, support, and solidarity for all its citizens.Pooley Emphasizes Commitment And Standards"We want volunteers who are not only skilled and compassionate but also unwaveringly committed to training and ethical standards," Pooley added. "Their presence makes a tangible difference in the lives of those who suffer the aftermath of violent crime, and they help the police stay connected, responsive, and humane in all circumstances. " The call to volunteers opens today, with applications accepted through the end of the month.For more information or to begin your application, visit the Lethbridge Police Service website, or contact the victim/witness services unit directly. Your involvement could be the voice of comfort and guidance that a victim of crime desperately needs.