That's how many volunteer hours Lewis Pardon has contributed to the Colorado Springs Police Department. Pardon told those assembled at the CSPD Volunteer Recognition Luncheon in April, 2008, "I left the service years ago and was looking for something to do." His something to do turned out to be volunteering at the police shooting range. By the way 43,351 hours is 20.84 years full time. Way to go Mr. Pardon.

Calling Lewis Pardon "a truly extraordinary individual," Kathy Rowlands, CSPD Volunteer Coordinator says there also are many volunteer opportunities for the "rest of us," those who can put in a couple of hours a month. In 2007 a total of 366 volunteers worked 49,545 hours for CSPD and saved the city about $870,000.

Right now people are needed for the Senior Victim Assistance Team (SVAT), for Handicap Parking Enforcement, and for PAL coaches as well as a myriad of clerical and support jobs.

SVAT volunteers provide crisis intervention and support for victims of crime, neglect or abuse who are 60 years of age or older. The volunteer must be available via pager for a minimum 48 consecutive hours per month. The department provides two vehicles for SVAT use but your personal vehicle often is required. Pay is $0 per day; benefits include the p ersonal satisfaction of helping seniors in our community.

Handicapped Parking Enforcement Unit (HPEU) are trained and qualified to warn or cite violators of handicapped parking spaces. HPEU members drive their personal vehicles and purchase their own uniforms.

To learn more about these positions as well as the others, contact Kathy Rowlands at 444-7441. Tell her the volunteer photographer sent you.