Also serving the communities of De Luz, Rainbow, Camp Pendleton, Pala and Pauma

Seniors find satisfaction, camaraderie in Volunteer Patrol

Interested seniors are invited to a coffee meeting on Feb. 26

The seniors that give their time to the Fallbrook Sheriff's Substation Volunteer Patrol are a diverse, talented, and interesting group – with one distinct thing in common – they all enjoy helping the community in a positive, tangible way.

"I had thought about joining the patrol, but thought maybe being in my 70s was a bit old for it; then I found out it's not too old to get involved in this," said Delos Eyer Sr., a longtime resident. "I think this is one of the most rewarding volunteer opportunities in town." Eyer, who has only been on the force for about three months, is enjoying the difference he is helping make in community life.

Members of the Senior Volunteer Patrol make a notable positive impact. First and foremost, the duties these volunteers perform free up sworn deputies so they can continue with patrols and priority crime-reducing operations. As does the Sheriff's Substation, the volunteers serve the areas of Fallbrook, De Luz, Rainbow, and Bonsall

According to Senior Volunteer Patrol assistant administrator Cindy Roark, in 2015, the volunteers contributed a total of 17,000 hours to the Sheriff's Dept. They gave 14,000 hours to check on elderly residents that are enrolled in the You Are Not Alone (YANA) program, made 4,000 vacation checks on homes while their owners (or tenants) were away, and transported 379 law enforcement vehicles to other locations.

Roark said the group is currently 50 members strong, but she hopes more local seniors might be interested in helping with the effort.

"We would love to have six or more new members," she said.

To serve on the Senior Volunteer Patrol, a man or woman must be 50 years of age or older; a U.S. citizen or legal alien who has applied for citizenship; possess a valid California driver's license and current automobile insurance; pass a background check; and complete a special two-week academy put on by the Sheriff's Dept. Each volunteer is asked to commit to serving one, six-hour shift per week. They can also do any extra hours they would like that are available.

"There are only three academies offered each year and we have one coming up soon that we hope to have some new recruits for," said Roark.

In addition to performing vacation checks on homes, checking on the elderly registered in the YANA program, and transporting department vehicles, the volunteers also assist with traffic control for accidents, parades, other special events, and more. They also perform neighborhood patrols and can issue handicap parking violations. All tasks are performed in a non-confrontational way.

Appreciation is immense for these volunteers. "The lieutenant (David Gilmore), deputies, and staff at the Sheriff's Substation are always thanking us for what we do," said Roark.

Fun, camaraderie, and new friendships run strong in this organization. It's a unique way for seniors to meet new people.

"We have a strong desire to assist the community, plus it's fun!" said Roark. "Everyone gets along and everyone has something to give back to the community."

"The camaraderie is great," added Eyer.

Anyone interested in learning more about serving as a member of the Senior Volunteer Patrol is welcome to attend a coffee meeting on Friday, Feb. 26 from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Fallbrook Sheriff's Substation, 388 E. Alvarado St. RSVP requested to (760) 451-3145.

 

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