It’s National Volunteer Week, and the Bellevue Police Department volunteer program was just honored as one of the best! Governor Jay Inslee and Serve Washington recognized BPD’s 26-year-old volunteer program as the top Citizen Corps Program in the state.
Last year alone, volunteers contributed more than 51,500 hours of labor to the police department. Twenty-nine volunteers have regular schedules and support the police department by staffing the Factoria and Crossroads substations, parking enforcement, shuttling patrol vehicles, stocking patrol cars, and assisting with investigations. Additionally, 23 Event Ambassadors and 217 Paws on Patrol members represent the department and help to fight crime.
“Because of the volunteers, our staff’s ability to serve and protect the public is greatly enhanced,” said Police Chief Steve Mylett. “They lessen the workload, allowing officers to focus on primary policing duties. We couldn’t do everything we do without them!”
Volunteer Program Administrator Marji Trachtman started the program in 1994 and has seen 198 volunteers come and go over the decades. “People can make such a positive difference in their community through volunteerism, and it has such an impact on each person’s life,” Trachtman said about her experience. “In addition to feeling an enhanced sense of purpose, many make lifetime friendships. It’s a privilege to be a part of this process.”
Click here Serve Washington Volunteer Service Awards for more information on the Governor’s awards.
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