Lacombe Police's Const. Vaughan Bleasdale sees community safety as a joint venture between police and public and he's a believer in what the Lacombe Community Watch Association (LCWA) brings to the table.

"Our community is just starting to get to a point where we're seeing a little more serious crime. A lot more drug use, a lot more property crimes, stolen vehicles. Having extra eyes and ears on the road is excellent for us," Bleasdale said.

"We recognize the importance of having community-minded individuals volunteering."

The constable serves as the liaison between the citizen group and the city's police force. He promotes the LCWA and its crime-prevention initiatives to his policing colleagues. Bleasdale has also trained volunteers for neighbourhood patrols.

In September, he was recognized by the Alberta Citizens on Patrol Association with the Excellence in Law Enforcement Award, receiving a certificate of merit and a framed drawing -- of a German shepherd puppy donning a police vest.

"He's been a very positive role model for our group. He's an exceptional, outstanding citizen in Lacombe. He believes in safe communities through crime watch initiatives. He's very invested in our groups. We have learned much from him as far as how to handle ourselves professionally and safely," said Debbi Gallant, president of the LCWA.

"Partnering with the Lacombe Police has been an excellent experience. They're very supportive of us and we appreciate that they come alongside us to help reduce crime in the community."

The Alberta Citizens on Patrol Association is the provincial governing body for all Citizens on Patrol programs. 

Citizens on Patrol is one of three programs the LCWA offers. The other two include Block Parent, where homes display signs indicating that they offer safe refuge for children, seniors and others in need; the second is Neighbourhood Watch.