By this coming Saturday night, one million Canadians will have volunteered through Operation Red Nose.
While it would impossible to identify the volunteer, every one is invited to take part in the operation close to home. ORN is still accepting volunteers to help on their busiest nights throughout the holiday season. Volunteers man the phones and help drive home clients' vehicles so they can get home safely.
The operation's season kicked off last weekend and in B.C., 955 motorists were driven home safely by sober volunteers. In the Chilliwack area, which includes Harrison and Agassiz, 97 safe rides home were given, with the help of 81 volunteers who worked right until 3 a.m.
While the rides home are free, donations are accepted on behalf of the non-profit organizations. In total last weekend, $1,677.30 was raised for the Kiwanis Club of Sardis. Last year's total number of rides given was 657, and more than $11,000 was raised.
The remaining nights for the 2013 campaign are Dec 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, and 31.
People and organizations hosting parties are reminded to let their guests know about the Operation Red Nose campaign, and provide the number for dispatch, 604-393-3000.
Those wishing a ride are asked to call about half an hour before they wish to go home, and even 45 minutes for Harrison or Agassiz rides. A volunteer drives your vehicle home, and another car accompanies to drive that volunteer back to the call centre.
To volunteer, stop by the RCMP detachment on Airport Road in Chilliwack to fill out a criminal record check.
news@ahobserver.com