The proclamation event takes place on:
Wednesday, July 23, 2014, 2 p.m.
Edmonton Police Headquarters, 9620 – 103 A Avenue
Second Floor Atrium
Joining Councillor Nickel is Acting EPS Chief Brian Simpson.
"We’re proud of the valuable services that are provided by the dedicated staff and volunteers of our Victim Services Unit," said Acting Staff Sgt. Aubrey Zalaski.
"Victims of all ages, and from all walks of life, receive compassionate support, referrals and information from Victim Services volunteers," noted Zalaski. He went on to explain that the unit is prepared to deal with a wide variety of scenarios. "Our advocates receive intense training in a variety of areas: from how to deal with grief and issues around suicide, sudden death, to domestic violence, elder abuse, and all manner of trauma," he continued.
VSU volunteers are highly trained, and they are dedicated to helping victims in whatever way they can. The EPS VSU was established 35 years ago, and its services are available 24/7. Advocates, who are thoroughly screened, and undergo a vigorous security check, must complete 46 hours of basic training to attain Advocate Training certification from the Alberta Solicitor General. The training covers 31 topics, including: Hate Crimes, Domestic Violence, Sexual Abuse, and dealing with grief.
Two recent and significant police incidents that VSU assisted with were the HUB Mall shootings and the Loblaws warehouse stabbings.
In 2013, volunteers donated 25,643 hours of service.