Police hiring next class of Auxiliaries

The Calgary Police Service is hiring its next class of Auxiliaries, giving up to 20 young people the chance to experience what it is like to work for a police service.

The Auxiliary program (formerly known as the Auxiliary Cadet program) was started in 2013 as a way for police to help young adults develop attributes of good citizenship, leadership, physical fitness and integrity. It also gives young people an opportunity to experience the world of policing first-hand before they decide whether a career as a police officer is right for them.

“The young people we get working as Auxiliaries develop skills that will serve them well in any career, but especially in policing,” says Constable Lynze McDonald, with the Calgary Police Service Youth Mentorship Team. “This is more than just a part-time job for them. It really can be life changing.”

Auxiliaries learn skills and knowledge that are foundational to being a good police officer, including how to resolve disputes, how to communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and how the legal system works. They also learn leadership skills and improve their physical fitness through the program.

Once the initial training is complete, Auxiliaries work part-time alongside police officers and civilian staff to help members of the public file reports, answer questions at the front counters of police stations, and receive more specialized training.

While having this experience does not guarantee a future career in policing, it is a major asset to have if a person later applies to be a police officer.

To help anyone interested in applying understand the demands and benefits of the program, the Service is holding an open house on Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017, at 6:30 p.m., at Police Headquarters (5111 47 Street N.E.). Attendees will have the chance to ask questions and meet the program coordinators.

Applications will then be accepted from Wednesday, Jan. 11, to Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2017. Applicants must be over the age of 18 and have a high school diploma.

More information on the program is available at www.calgarypolicecadets.com and applications must be submitted online at www.calgary.ca/careers.