R.E.S.P.E.C.T

Recognizing Every Strategy
Promoting Excellent Community Trust

A Partnership project between the Regional District of Central Okanagan, RCMP and the Westside Youth Centre.

What is RESPECT? 

RESPECT is a program that promotes positive community relations and trust. This partnership program sees the Regional District of Central Okanagan (Parks & Recreation and Crime Prevention), the RCMP and the Westside Youth Centre teaming up to create a more positive Westside. One of the main components of the program relies on the relationship between youth and the RCMP. Through the use of “positive tickets” it is anticipated this program will help to strengthen the relationship between youth and the RCMP.

What is a Positive Ticket?

On the Westside, RCMP will be handling out “positive tickets” to any youth they see who are not engaged in any negative or destructive behaviour.

What are examples of positive tickets?

Positive tickets include coupons for a free slushie, free coffee, free pizza, swim vouchers, movie passes, skating tickets, ski passes, etc.

Why a positive ticketing program?

There is a need to recognize positive things that occur in our community every day. There is a need to foster the relationship between our community and our youth and to remember that the majority of youth in our community are great young people. They should not to be feared nor should they fear positive role models – the RCMP. Youth should feel relaxed when approached by an RCMP Officer, not defensive and uncomfortable. This joint initiative demonstrates an integrated approach to connecting our youth with our community.

Where will the tickets come from?

Collectively the three partner groups will be approaching local businesses to solicit support for our program. Support in the form of donations will be the main objective, although free coupons and vouchers for products at local businesses is also welcomed.

How will participating businesses be recognized?

Sponsoring/donating businesses will be recognized on the tickets themselves, through all media releases and in printed material as time constraints allow.

This initiative has the full support of the youth council from the Westside Youth Centre, the Regional District of Central Okanagan and the Kelowna and District RCMP.

Positive Goals

• Positive outcomes are noticeable or measurable differences in the interaction between youth and RCMP.
• RCMP members will have the opportunity to reinforce that our valued youth are outstanding citizens by issuing positive rewards.
• Youth will have the opportunity to engage in a more personal and comfortable rapport with community police officers.
• Youth and RCMP will gain a mutual respect and greater understanding for each other.
• With anticipated positive feedback, there is a goal to expand the program throughout the Central Okanagan.

We are looking at qualitative outcomes not statistics

For more information, contact the Westside Community Policing Office at (250) 768-2880