Mohawk College Police Foundations students give back through outreach program
Mohawk College Police Foundations students are volunteering their time to help Gore Park Community Outreach serve roughly 1,000 people each week.
The community-based food bank operates in the back parking lot of Hamilton City Hall every Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm.
For Mohawk College student Brennan, the connection began with an invitation from a friend’s grandfather, a longtime volunteer with the organization. That introduction led to an opportunity to involve more students. With permission from the food bank's Executive Director/Volunteer Jeffrey Ng, Brennan developed a program to recruit and train Police Foundations students as volunteers.
The students volunteer with the guest services team, helping ensure the food bank operates fairly, safely and peacefully. Sixteen Mohawk College students currently volunteer with the organization, with many more expected to join soon.
“When our Police Foundations students volunteer at a local community outreach they are putting the community first,” said Jim Richards, Professor, Community, Wellness and Public Safety. “Our students are demonstrating one of the most important characteristics looked for in a law enforcement candidate—a close connection with the community they wish to serve. An outstanding effort by all those involved.”