Sergeant Kathy Carter - Community Service

Since joining the OPP in 1994 Sgt. Kathy Carter has been an active participant and fundraiser for many special causes including the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics and the Sunshine Foundation to assist terminally ill children. She makes presentations to grades 7 & 8 students in Ajax on the Police Awareness Program and participates in job fairs. Kathy has maintained a keen interest in her own personal fitness and has actively supported other officers in the desire to maintain their own physical fitness. She is a Certified Fitness Appraiser for those officers who are seeking their own Police Fitness Pin.

In the aftermath of the attacks on September 11, 2001 members of the Toronto Police Service decided to organize a fundraising campaign for the families of the emergency service victims. Sgt. Kathy Carter became aware of this campaign and offered her assistance. A commemorative T-shirt was designed to sell as a fundraiser. On Friday, September 21, 2001 Sgt. Carter participated in a media release of the fundraising initiative. The response from the public was overwhelming. The initial goal of $10,000 was surpassed in just three days.

Sgt. Carter continued to participate in this initiative and co-ordinated additional assistance from members of the OPP. She helped sell shirts at shopping malls, Toronto's Union Station and distributed the shirts province-wide. These efforts were responsible for raising a further $25,000 for the campaign.

On December 1, 2001 Sgt. Carter along with a contingent of Toronto Police officers and Chief Julian Fantino travelled to New York City and at the "Canadians Love New York" rally presented the president of the Patrolman's Benevolent Association a cheque for $102,115.00. This donation went directly to the widows and children of the New York City Police Officers who lost their lives during the World Trade Centre attacks.

The success of this campaign was a direct result of the efforts and commitment of Sgt. Kathy Carter. Her willingness to unselfishly give her off duty time to assist and support this worthwhile cause is a tribute to Kathy.

Ladies and Gentlemen the winner of the 2002 Laura Ellis Award for Community Service, Sgt. Kathy Carter of the Ontario Provincial Police.