Odd Squad Productions Society's first annual ON TRACK Youth Ambassador Workshop was a huge success!
 We were able to host 36 students from across the Lower Mainland, congratulating them and praising them for the positive roles they have taken in their communities and in their peer groups.
 The day started at VPD Headquarters with a warm welcome from Deputy Chief Constable Bob Rolls, Inspector Adam Palmer, and Surrey Safe Schools' Manager, Theresa Campbell, setting the tone for an action packed day of education and excitement. This was followed by a presentation given by Odd Squad’s Sgt. Mark Steinkampf on the perils of drug abuse and its prevalence in our city.
 A short ride then brought participants to Vancouver’s harbour front, where they enjoyed a boat tour of the harbour with the VPD Marine Squad. In addition, the VPD Gang Squad, Traffic Team, Dog Squad, and Emergency Response Team joined us to offer demonstrations and presentations on the different roles that are necessary to fight against drug abuse and crime in our community.
 We then moved up to the VPD Station at 312 Main Street, where our participants engaged in a hands-on workout and judo demonstration with members of Odd Squad and the VPD Judo Club. The event ended with officer-guided tours of the Downtown Eastside, which naturally elicited some very dramatic reactions from participants. Some stated that it was likely the single most compelling, affirming experience regarding the choices they have made and the choices they will continue to encourage. Youth participants returned to their respective schools armed with the tools necessary to deliver presentations to the entire student body, regarding the value of choice and the consequence of experimentation with drugs and illegal activity.
These extraordinary young people also joined us at our first annual Gala Fundraiser event, held on June 8, 2009 at the Westin Bayshore Hotel. They had the opportunity to meet with some of their favorite sports personalities, as well as other individuals in our community who have made a positive impact similar to that of our youth participants.
We are eagerly anticipating the 2010 ON TRACK event on May 1st, with the hope that you will be able to take part in this landmark program.
|
