For many of our officers, serving the community extends far beyond the end of their shift. Whether volunteering with local organisations, supporting community initiatives or fundraising for important causes, our people are committed to making a positive difference beyond their policing role. Through these experiences, they build meaningful connections, support those in need and strengthen the communities they serve.
Law Enforcement Torch Run
Senior Sergeant Brett Pengilly began volunteering with the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR), the largest grassroots awareness and fundraising movement for Special Olympics, four years ago. Initially participating in LETR events, he was inspired to become more involved after getting to know the athletes and hearing their stories.
Since then, Senior Sergeant Pengilly has dedicated countless hours to fundraising through raffles and community initiatives and now serves as President of LETR WA.
"Volunteering with the Law Enforcement Torch Run has shown me the incredible impact we can have when we support inclusion and create opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities and autism," said Senior Sergeant Pengilly. "Seeing athletes grow in confidence, achieve their goals and experience the joy of belonging is truly rewarding."
"It also provides a positive and meaningful way to connect with our community beyond our policing duties. I would encourage any officer to get involved. The friendships you build, the experiences you gain and the difference you make are invaluable."
WA Police Legacy
WA Police Legacy (Legacy) is a charitable organisation that provides welfare and support to the families of WA Police officers following the loss of a loved one.
First Class Constable Ashleigh Gaunt has a long family connection to the WA Police Force and has seen firsthand the positive impact Legacy has on police families. When her Pop, a retired police officer, passed away, Legacy provided her Nan with a much-needed support network and connection to people who understood both the unique challenges of police life and the loss of a loved one.
Witnessing the difference this support made inspired First Class Constable Gaunt to become a Legacy volunteer.
"WA Police Legacy has been part of my life for many years, so being able to give back through volunteering is something I value deeply," said First Class Constable Gaunt. "Seeing firsthand the support Legacy provides to police families reminds me why this work matters."
First Class Constable Gaunt has been instrumental in coordinating and delivering the annual WA Police Legacy Pilbara Ball, which recently raised an incredible $32,000.
"I've been volunteering with WA Police Legacy for the past three years, helping coordinate events that bring our community together in support of police families. Seeing the difference these fundraising efforts make, and knowing the funds raised directly support those who need it most, is incredibly rewarding."
"Volunteering has also connected me with local businesses and community members in ways that strengthen both my role as an officer and my ties to the region. It's an experience that creates positive outcomes far beyond the fundraising itself."
Common Ground Pickleball
For First Class Constable Allan Lam, volunteering centres on the fast-growing Pickleball community after being inspired by the positive impact the sport has on people’s lives.
“It’s one of the few sports where people of all ages and skill levels can genuinely play together,” said First Class Constable Lam. "Volunteering through pickleball has shown me how powerful community connection can be. It brings together people from all backgrounds and professions, creating genuine relationships built on trust, inclusion and shared experiences."
"The work I do through our growing group, Common Group Pickleball, reflects many of the same values that are at the heart of policing, including service, inclusion, relationship building and community connection."
"One of the greatest benefits of policing is the opportunity to positively impact people's lives, and volunteering extends that impact beyond the uniform. It allows officers to build meaningful connections and become active members of the communities they serve."
If you're looking for a career where you can make a difference both on and off duty, the WA Police Force offers the opportunity to serve alongside people who are passionate about supporting their communities. Apply now and discover a rewarding career while creating positive change.