Volunteers receive 5-year pins from VPD

EAST MILL PLAIN — Vancouver Police Department Neighbors on Watch volunteers Nancy Schultz and Linda Mather each received five-year service pins from the police department. Officers Brian Shaffer and Sam Abdala gave them the pins in a “COVID-19-safe pinning ceremony. Neighbors on Watch, known as NOW, volunteers are “eyes and ears” of the police department, patrolling on foot, bike and in cars. They receive training from the department before being certified to volunteer. “Volunteers work in teams of three, with two on patrol with radios and a third who acts as base for the team,” Shultz said. “We call in suspicious activity, report stolen vehicles, help find missing persons and evidence. Volunteers also assist the department in administrative activities.” Volunteers receive pins in 2-, 5- and 10-year intervals. “While our activities have been temporarily suspended due to COVID-19, our volunteer program is still offering engagement opportunities through virtual trainings and take-home projects that assist VPD,” said Jordan Macfarlane, police volunteer program coordinator.