Volunteers are needed to give rides on New Year's Eve and keep local roads safe while also supporting a good cause.
Operation Red Nose is putting out a call for volunteers to help on the biggest party night of the year.
"We’ve had an excellent turnout of volunteers this year,” said Chris Wilson, provincial spokesperson for Operation Red Nose, and Coquitlam councillor. “But traditionally we see a much higher need for rides on New Year’s Eve and therefore could use many more teams of volunteers specifically for this night.”
On Dec. 31, volunteers who operate in teams of three are expected to give about 180 rides to New Year's Eve partiers between 9 p.m. and 3 p.m., with funds raised from donations going to KidSport, an organization that helps kids from lower-income families participate in sports.
Wilson said volunteering is a fun way to meet new people, give back to the community and end the year with a few good stories to tell.
But the deadline for volunteer drivers to get a criminal record check is fast-approaching so people are asked to download an application at operationrednosetricities.com and bring it to the main police detachment, along with two pieces of government ID.
"They'll process it right away," said Wilson, who said the process is free.
The application must be submitted by Wednesday, Dec. 30 at the latest.
Last year, approximately $34,000 was raised for KidSport in this region and Wilson said while donations are slightly down so far he hopes to close the gap with a busy New Year's Eve.
Meanwhile, those planning to use the by-donation service, should plan on calling 778-866-6673 (NOSE) about 1.5 to 2 hours before they plan to leave their event to give drivers' time to arrive.
Partiers will get a call about 15 minutes before their ride arrives to give time for leave-taking and to ensure an efficient process so all callers can be served.
