The bond between the police and the community was honoured last month when Constable Mitchell Price, a member of the Olds RCMP, was awarded the inaugural Community Partner of the Year award by Olds College.
As a Community Resource Officer, Cst. Price has prioritized engaging with students and residents, ensuring they see him as a law enforcement officer and relatable community member.
"Community policing and community engagement are a priority for us," Cst. Price explained. "It means a lot to us to be acknowledged for our work in the community."
His proactive approach has resonated particularly well with students at Olds College. Cst. Price shared a memorable experience from last year's orientation when he was invited to greet incoming students and their families.
"It was a fantastic opportunity to let them know that the police are on their side and are a positive part of the community," he said.
By being visible and approachable, he aims to change perceptions of law enforcement, particularly among those who may have had negative experiences. However, Cst. Price acknowledges that building trust can be challenging, particularly in communities with varied cultural backgrounds.
"We have a large population of international students, and not everyone has had positive experiences with law enforcement," he noted. "That’s why it’s important to normalize our presence and create opportunities for people to interact with us outside of crises."
Despite the obstacles, Cst. Price’s commitment to community engagement has led to significant achievements. Under his leadership, initiatives such as charity hockey games and youth academies have successfully brought people together, fostering a sense of camaraderie and support.
"We hope to continue that moving forward in the coming years," he said, reflecting on the groundwork laid during his time as a Community Resource Officer.
Recent changes within the RCMP mean Olds no longer has a designated Community Resource Officer, which Cst. Price describes as a shift from focusing on community relations to a crime reduction emphasis.
"While the title may have changed, my commitment to maintaining those relationships remains," he assured. "The groundwork has been laid, and I expect those connections to continue to grow."
For Cst. Being a positive influence in the community is more than just a job; it’s about leaving a lasting legacy.
“I hope to be that name that people remember as a positive influence in their lives,” he concluded.
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