By Cpl. Jack Nash
PIO OCSO
OKEECHOBEE — Retired but still want to remain active within the community? Do you have a few hours a month and want to make a difference and meet amazing people?
Would you like to set up your hours yet get to know the county and become a part of a specialized group that works within the Sheriff's Office?
Why not consider being a volunteer with the Sheriff's Citizen Observer Patrol - Known as the C.O.P. Program?
Members patrol areas of need, assist in traffic-related incidents, check on the elderly and bedridden within our community, and interact as a Sheriff's representative during public and civic events.
Most of all, C.O.P.s are an extra set of eyes and ears within the community that helps ensure the safety and well-being of the citizens.
If you have at least four hours, you can always do more if you want, but just four hours and the drive to make a difference think about joining Sheriff Noel E. Stephen's and the Okeechobee County Sheriff's Office C.O.P. program.
You can call 863-763-3117 ext. 5018 for questions or come by 504 NW 4th St., Okeechobee and pick up an application.
We meet every Monday around 8:30 a.m., with our meeting starting promptly at 9 a.m. at our C.O.P. - H.Q. located at 1551 NW 24th Blvd., Okeechobee.
Come see us and find out what we are about, and think about joining up!