On October 8, 2014 volunteers with the County's Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) teamed up with Circulate San Diego and the Sheriff's Senior Volunteer Patrol (SVP) for International Walk to School Day.

This year for International Walk to School Day, HHSA Intergenerational Coordinators began working with the Sheriff's Department earlier to partner with the Senior Volunteer Patrol to add more “eyes on the streets” for an extra layer of safety.  The Senior Volunteer Patrol is an essential part of the Sheriff's Department and helps make communities safer for everyone. 

"Our senior volunteers enjoy making a difference and if they can leave a positive impression on children and young adults, it’s a win-win for everyone,” said Sergeant Rey Lyyjoki who oversees the Sheriff's Volunteer Services.

On International Walk to School Day, members of the Sheriff's SVP walked students to school in Santee, Lemon Grove and Vista and conducted traffic patrols along the routes to ensure kids got to school safely. Parents and children walking to school together met volunteers who were giving prizes and healthy snacks to everyone. The partnership was a great success!

Events like Walk to School Day promote and reinforce healthy, active lifestyles for families and generations with activities like walking.
 

The Sheriff's Department is always looking for new Senior Volunteer Patrol members. Volunteers must be 50 years and older who want to serve their community through safety and service programs in fire, crime prevention and education.

For more information on how to join the Sheriff's Senior Volunteer Patrol, call (858) 974-2084 or visit www.sdsheriff.net/volunteers.