One of the volunteers to join the Sleeping Giant Patrol believes community safety is a shared responsibility.
Joshua Hewitt walked the south downtown core Friday night with the group on its maiden walk, saying patrolling the streets is a great way to start.
“I think it’s great to speak to the grassroots movement that’s happening here on the south side. Think people often forget their cultural and historical significance here, but it’s events like these that remind us why it’s important to take pride in this community.”
The group of about a dozen was instructed by organizer Mel Legarde of what’s expected of them as they walked along.
Another volunteer says he was motivated to act out of a need to do more for his community and Thunder Bay.
Fort William First Nation resident Ken Cyrette adds he was exceptionally pleased with the walk, in particular with the organizers.
“I’m impressed with the leadership of Mel Legarde. He’s the best person to spearhead this.”
He praised Legarde for how quickly the group has been formed.
And, a woman who’s studying police college at Oski-Wenjack Institute, enjoyed herself.
Eileen Koostachin says she earns credit for her program in volunteering.
“We were appointed to the Sleeping Giant by our program, due to the fact that we need 100 hours of community service to participate into our schooling. I enjoy the environment, the people around everyone’s got a smile on their faces.”
Sleeping Giant Patrol organizers say some Thunder Bay businesses have already offered help if needed, city council is on board with this, and some area schools have asked for the leaders to show up and speak to students.
