Operation Red Nose a third of the way towards volunteer goal

Operation Red Nose Prince George has reached the 100-volunteer mark, but organizers say there's still a ways to go as the holiday season draws near.

"Right now we have 107 people who have registered, but our goal is to have 350 volunteers by the time our campaign begins on Nov. 29," said Operation Red Nose spokesperson Andrea Johnson. "We're asking everyone to apply as soon as possible to allow the processing of their applications and ensure they can work the nights they want."

The service is available to anyone who does not feel fit to drive and will be available over the nights of Nov. 29, 30, Dec. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21 and Dec. 31 from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m.

Volunteers can be designated drivers, navigators, escort vehicle drivers, or work at Operation Red Nose headquarters. On average, about 15 teams of three will be on call each night of service.

Volunteers must be 19 years old and have a valid driver's license and must fill out a criminal record check form, which is all available online at www.ornpg.ca.

"We're asking volunteers to apply as soon as possible to allow time for processing their applications and ensure they can work the nights they want," said Johnson.

In 2012, 273 Operation Red Nose volunteers provided 1,084 safe rides home over nine nights, the second-best highest total in the history of Operation Red Nose in Prince George. In 2010, 1,123 safe rides were provided, the most ever.

It's organized by the Rotary Club of Prince George Nechako in partnership with the RCMP and ICBC.