The Delta Police Department (DPD) is announcing the successful launch of its Recruit Community Learning Program (RCLP), an innovative training approach reflecting the department’s community-first policing focus.
The program is designed to enhance recruits’ knowledge of the community they will serve and develop connections with community partners.
In December, four recruits, accompanied by a training supervisor, participated in the RCLP for a week. This program marks DPD as the first in B.C. to integrate such a community-based training program for police recruits. The program’s focus is to deepen the recruits’ understanding of the community, its people, available services, and resources, and to foster connections with local non-profit organizations. This is especially vital as the role of police work continues to evolve.
The immersive experience saw recruits, dressed in plain clothes, and unarmed, actively engaging with various community organizations including the Delta Chamber of Commerce, Reach Child and Youth Development Society, Kennedy Seniors Recreation Center, Guru Nanak Food Bank, Deltassist, Baitur Rahman Mosque, Lighthouse Church, and South Delta Food Bank, covering various demographics.
The recruits’ involvement spanned a diverse array of activities and learning experiences. They assisted at food banks, gaining a firsthand understanding of the challenges and needs of vulnerable populations. They explored the dynamics of the local business landscape and the wide range of services and resources available. Additionally, they gained insights into various faiths and community support systems.
“The insights and relationships our recruits have gained through the RCLP are invaluable,” said Chief Neil Dubord. “This program benefits our recruits and strengthens the bond between our team and the community we serve. I was fortunate to accompany our recruits on some of these enriching experiences, witnessing the incredible work our community is doing and their contributions to our recruits’ learning and knowledge building.”
