The community saw a whole new side of their police force, during the Bonnyville RCMP and Bonnyville Victim Services Regimental Ball.
On Saturday, Nov. 18, residents and RCMP members from near and far got together for a good cause, the local Victim Services Unit (VSU).
With over 400 people in attendance, Debbie Winstone, program manager for VSU, said it was clear they had the support of their community.
“It's amazing,” she expressed. “It's nice to see, because people don't get to see this side of the RCMP. It's something different for the community.”
The ball was a unique fundraiser for the local VSU, but it brought in more than just necessary funding.
For VSU volunteers and staff, it proved that their services weren't going unnoticed.
“You just go on doing your everyday things all of the time and you don't realize that people are actually out there supporting you. Tonight shows that they're out there supporting us,” Winstone continued.
Kiera Malishewski attended the event with co-workers. The service is near and dear to their hearts, after a fellow employee fell victim to a crime.
“We like to come to things like this to help and support our community,” Malishewski said. “We do have a staff member who has used victim services, so the cause is very close to our hearts.”
Malishewski explained how vital the unit is to not only the Bonnyville area, but to all communities.
“There's always going to be bad things. It's important to be able to support those who are going through tough times.”
The evening included presentations by members decorated with accomplishments. Cpl. Sheri McAuley shared the history of the RCMP, and how it grew into the force it is today.
This was followed by Sgt. Sarah Parke's presentation of the Fallen Comrade Ceremony, which reflects on the members who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Parke noted a table at the front of the room. On it was a single red rose, a candle, a stetson, and a plate with salt and a single slice of lemon. At the table was an empty chair, to remind everyone that those members were not there.
S/Sgt. Luis Gandolfi welcomed everyone to the event, and later told the Nouvelle about the importance of community support.
“I hope the turnout says that we have the community's support, and I do think it does demonstrate that. That's important, without their support we're out of business,” he said.
After toasts to the Queen, the force, spouses, and emergency services, members presented the Grand March, concluding the dinner portion of the event and kicking off the dancing.
“At the end of the day, the RCMP are human just like the rest of us. People don't always see that. By being at an event like this, they can see that they're people just like you and me,” Winstone concluded.
