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EPS officer recognized for outstanding volunteer service

June 4, 2021 – Det. Rocky Hanson was selected by the Kiwanis Club for his outstanding dedication and volunteer service to the community. He was recognized for his over two decades of service, coordinating numerous community activities, projects and coaching/mentoring kids in a variety of sports.

Credit: EPS

Volunteering is one of the most important aspects of life for Det. Hanson, who has served his community for close to 25 years. He joined EPS in 2009 and, at the time, was already an active volunteer with the Burnewood Community League organizing numerous sports activities, social events and fundraisers.

His leadership as league president for 22 years helped Burnewood residents create a more healthy, vibrant and inclusive community to live in, and the league raised over a million dollars to develop two playgrounds and a multipurpose rink.

Hanson also helped establish the Spirit of Burnewood program to offer financial assistance for kids to be able to participate in recreational opportunities and to the Hungry Kids program to provide for the nutritional needs of school children. Hanson also devoted over 20 years to coaching and mentoring kids in hockey, soccer, football and boxing; helping them develop to the best of their abilities so they could be successful in athletics and in life. Drawing on his years of coaching, community and policing experience, Hanson has also been helping local boxer Jama Gaiye Hoday with the Jambo Boxing and Fitness Center to offer vulnerable youth opportunities to build self-confidence, stable relationships and healthy lifestyles.

Credit: EPS

As part of the award, the Kiwanis Club of Edmonton – Oil Capital is donating $1,000 to the Jambo Boxing and Fitness Center on behalf of Det. Hanson. Jambo was created by local boxer Jama Gaiye Hoday, who grew up in Africa and wanted to provide young people with recreational opportunities in a safe environment.

Kiwanis has recognized 45 EPS officers for their outstanding volunteer contributions in the community since 1976.  For more information about the Kiwanis Club of Edmonton – Oil Capital, please visit www.oilcapitalkiwanis.ca.

Watch the full ceremony: