In October 1995 the Burlington Ontario Provincial Police (O.P.P) officially started a Victim Assistance Volunteer Program. The program offered 24 hours - 7 days a week coverage to all officers and was under the supervision of Constable Laura McCutcheon.
The first crisis call in December of 1995 entailed assisting 2 families who were involved in a traffic fatality that resulted in one death. Due to the assistance the volunteers provided to the victims family, donations were sent to the V.A.V.P in lieu of flowers. As a result of those donations, a program was formulated and memorial cards were provided to funeral homes in our jurisdiction.
Restructuring of the program occurred July 1996 resulting in the development of team leader positions and the establishment of a board of directors. Policies and procedures were designed and various contracts were put in to place regarding volunteer responsibilities.
In November 1999, the OPP recognized the VAVP for outstanding assistance and support of their Community Policing Services.
In 2000, the VAVP conducted the first annual fundraiser, "Angels N Motion Fun Run" a 5K fun run/walk. This event continues to provide annual funding for the operation of the program.
October 2005, the first annual Volunteer Recognition Award was handed out.
The VAVP (Burlington) - past, present, and future -- is a vital program serving the Burlington OPP Detachement. Our volunteers and not counselors; they are advocates for families in a crisis situation. Through the commitment and dedication of the volunteers and by working together with the OPP the overall trauma to victims can be greatly reduced by providing emotional support, education adn referrals to the appropriate agencies.
Our History
Organizational Chart.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
VICTIM ASSISTANCE VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
PROGRAM COORDINATOR
TEAM LEADERS
VOLUNTEERS
