Operation Red Nose officially launches its 2010 campaign today at CN Centre during the Prince George Cougars game.
RCMP Superintendent Brenda Butterworth-Carr, Operation Red Nose chair Kelly Zammit and Nechako Rotary Club president Bob Guy, will drop the puck at 7 p.m. when the Cougars host the Edmonton Oil Kings in WHL action.
"Operation Red Nose volunteers will also be on hand on the concourse during the game to spread the word to Cougars fans about the unique designated driving service," said Andrea Johnson, ORN spokesperson.
"Our goal is to give 1,000 rides over the holiday season. So far, we have about 100 volunteers who have stepped up to help us this year, but we need about 250 more to ensure everyone gets a safe ride home."
Criminal record check forms will also be available for people to fill out. The forms are a must for ORN volunteers who must be 19 years or older and have a valid driver's license.
Last year the program set a record with 796 rides given during nine nights which was an increase of 290 rides compared to 2008.
The free, holiday season service, organized by the Nechako Rotary Club in partnership with the RCMP and ICBC, allows partygoers and their vehicles to get home safely.
Johnson said program organizers are looking for a real busy season this year due to the province's tougher drinking and driving rules that came into effect in September.
"We hope partygoers take advantage of our unique service, but in order to fulfill the demand, we need volunteers to step up," said Johnson.
Volunteers drive, navigate and operate phones out of Operation Red Nose headquarters with an average of 15 teams of three on call each night of service, working from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m.
This year, the service will be offered Nov. 26 and 27, Dec. 3 and 4, Dec. 10 and 11, Dec. 17 and 18 and New Year's Eve.
Johnson encourages businesses, community and groups and sports teams to get together and volunteer for one night.
"It's a great way to have some fun and give back to the community," said Johnson, noting one such group is 15 employees from Jordy's Lounge.
Criminal record check forms are available at the Community Policing Office on Brunswick Street or at 94XFM and The Wolf radio stations. Those who require more information about volunteering, can call volunteer co-ordinator Heather Spicer at 250-963-0279 or 250-613-6947.
Operation Red Nose will also be at the Prince George Spruce Kings - Trail Smoke Eaters game Nov. 12 at the Coliseum.
