Wider Horizons asked: Do you think society gives you adequate support to do your job?
Sgt. Mark Smallbones (Criminal Justice 1998)- Lethbridge Regional Police Service
As a police officer, I feel very fortunate to work in a community that is supportive of its police service. That being said, we recognize times have changed and this support is no longer just given; it must be earned.
The members of our service strive to uphold our values of respect, honesty, integrity, excellence and commitment as we work to provide safe communities and earn the public’s trust and confidence. It’s also important for police officers to be active in the community, build relationships and get to know the people we serve in order to maintain public support dispel myths and help foster a true understanding about what we do. Community participation is equally important for our members because it helps them recognize that as police officers we have negative dealings with a very small percentage of the population and the vast majority of our citizens are good, law-abiding people.
Drew Clark (EMT ‘08) EMR, EMT-A- Coaldale and District Emergency Services
I am very fortunate to work in an industry where I have the opportunity to help others. At the same time, I feel fortunate to be in a career in which I am supported so strongly by the public. We as EMS professionals rely heavily on support from the public in many areas. We often come upon scenes where we need the assistance from the public in gathering information as well as in rare instances where we call on the public to assist us in our work. Many services also rely on the public for funding and donations for extra equipment. I believe that every time I go to work I have the full support and backing from the people in my community. I also believe the public respects the work I do, and that gives me great job satisfaction.
