TPS – MARINE UNIT COMMUNITY OUTREACH RESCUE PROGRAM (CORP)

Being able to afford and participate in recreational programs can be a challenge among new Canadians. Many of the youth participating in ProAction programs are new to Canada, live in impoverished neighbourhoods and have few opportunities. The Toronto Police Service’s Marine Unit program called the Community Outreach Rescue Program (CORP) provides youth with several life changing experiences that they may not have been able to afford otherwise. This program has run for several years and has changed many lives.

This Toronto-based and officer-led program takes place at Woodbine Beach. Officers and youth meet at the beach three times a week over a period of six weeks. This amount of interaction allows for positive relationships to be built in a fun and safe environment.

Being educated about water safety is important as it can save lives. Youth are given the opportunity to take Lifeguarding qualifications through Toronto Parks & Recreation and to obtain badges in the Swim Patrol Program and First Aid. Throughout the CORP, officers teach youth and provide instruction, consistently putting an emphasis on Lifesaving Sport.

Finding employment is challenging, especially for youth who lack work experience and have limited opportunities. The youth from CORP are given a chance to gain summer employment with the marine unit. The qualifications gained from participating in this program assist youth in their search for employment and each year, youth are given the exciting opportunity to compete in the TYR Ontario Junior Lifeguard Games-Waterfront on Bluffer’s Park Beach hosted by the TPLS.