The RCMP detachment in Portage la Prairie enjoyed an Appreciation Barbecue courtesy of the local Citizens On Patrol Program.

"The RCMP does so much work in the community," says C.O.P.P. member and secretary Wayne. "And we weren't aware of any efforts to show an appreciation for that. Because they've been so good with a working relationship with Citizens On Patrol Program, we decided that we wanted to do something for them. So, we started an Appreciation Barbecue a couple of years ago."

Wayne says all the support from the RCMP helps them do the good work they want to do.

crowd enjoying the bbqC.O.P.P. member Rose says Staff Sergeant Rob Vachon and Mayor Irvine Ferris both spoke at the event, with some city councillors in attendance as well. She notes C.O.P.P. really tries to help. She adds there's also a lot of community fundraising the group does, including a golf tournament that's taking place in September. These fundraising efforts support local community programs that are challenged with funding. The golf tournament funds go toward KidSport, helping kids who can't afford to get involved with sports, giving them opportunities to be off the streets and out of trouble. Other groups receiving support from C.O.P.P. include Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, Youth For Christ, the Family Resource Centre and several other youth efforts.

Rose adds about $44,500 has been raised for KidSport over the last ten years by C.O.P.P., and there are about ten openings left for the next golf tournament. If you're interested in golfing with them, call Rose at (204) 856-7004.

Constable Sean O'Keefe adds the RCMP does what it can to support C.O.P.P. He notes it's a wonderful group comprised of very civic-minded volunteers who are the eyes and ears for the RCMP, and says the RCMP can't be everywhere at once.

 

At the table with some RCMP officers