RCMP Auxiliary volunteers, Tuesday night (Image Credit: Kelowna RCMP)

By Vernon Matters Staff

New additions

Kelowna RCMP graduates first auxiliary volunteers

Mar 11, 2026 | 10:30 AM

Kelowna’s first group of auxiliary RCMP volunteers officially graduated Tuesday night.

Fourteen volunteers completed months of training and will start patrolling at Tier 1, assisting with community policing and crime prevention. Their duties include safety talks, Watch programs, supporting police operations, attending community events, and helping with searches or public ceremonies.

Supt. Chris Goebel said the program strengthens ties between police and the community while boosting public safety. Mayor Tom Dyas called the program an important step in building stronger connections between residents and law enforcement.

Ethan Laferdy, a full-time RCMP dispatcher and volunteer graduate, said he joined to gain hands-on experience and stay connected to the community.

“Protecting our community isn’t just my job; it’s my calling,” he said.

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The RCMP Auxiliary Program, first introduced in 1963, allows volunteers to support policing through non-enforcement roles.