Penticton

Penticton RCMP victim services program leader awarded for her work

Awarded for victim services

Casey Richardson - Jan 22, 2021 / 11:30 am | Story: 322724

Photo: Contributed

Dede Dacyk and her assitance dog, Calypso

A Penticton community leader has been recognized alongside four others and one community organization for their ongoing support for victims of crime, including those impacted by gender-based violence.

Dede Dacyk started as a volunteer 17 years ago for the Penticton/Summerland RCMP Victim/Witness Service Unit and has since become the program manager. Dacyk is known for having a "client first" attitude, where she gives a level of service to her clients that make each and every one of them feel like a priority and her relationship building and commitment.

Back in 2016, she took the lead to acquire Calypso, a Pacific Assistance Dog Society dog. The Labrador retriever has played significant importance in not only providing supports for victims and survivors, but also for RCMP members and support staff. The pup was specially picked for her empathy and trained to be with victims in settings from the schoolhouse to the courthouse.

The recipients received their awards from the 23rd Community Safety and Crime Prevention Awards through a virtual ceremony.

"These award recipients and nominees demonstrate that we can make a real difference in the lives of those who have been impacted by crime, violence and victimization," Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General said in a press release.

"On behalf of the government, I want to thank each recipient for their dedication and commitment in keeping our communities safe and helping survivors of crime."

The awards acknowledge individuals, non-profit organizations, police and other local partners for their work in advancing crime prevention, restorative justice and other approaches that keep our communities safer. These efforts support provincial initiatives in policing, community safety and victim services.

"Each of the award recipients has shown an outstanding commitment to community, to care and to make our communities safer," Grace Lore, Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity said.

"Their work has made a difference in the lives of British Columbians impacted by crimes, including survivors of sexual assault and abuse. I want to express my sincere gratitude for their efforts, for their trauma-informed and community-centred work and for all they have done to change lives in our province."

The Community Safety and Crime Prevention Awards were presented to: