Bryan Larkin
Occupation: Superintendent - Waterloo Regional Police Service
Hometown: Waterloo Region, Ontario
Volunteer – Crew Member
Going Coast to Coast and Proud to be a Volunteer Supporting our National Riders
Born and raised in Montreal, from an early age, my parents instilled in me the importance of volunteering and sharing ones self with others to make a difference no matter how small or big, as it all counts. Working as a police officer for the last 18 years has allowed me to commit to a life of public service, and working to improve the quality of life for all in the Waterloo Region. This journey has allowed me to work with young people, seniors, the homelessness, Special Olympians, and those in times of crisis.
In 1998 a number of colleagues, as well as their family members, were battling cancer. I was approached by some community members to pull together a fundraiser, ‘Cops for Cancer’. Over the next three months my coordination role would have me cross paths with caregivers, survivors, family members and the experience would change my life forever. The event brought together young cancer patients who, through treatment had lost their hair. They were joined by police officers in an effort to support them through their treatment. Naturally, to promote ‘bald is beautiful’ – police officers shaved their ‘locks’ to support our brave young people. My involvement in cancer related fundraising has been ongoing since 1998.
Ten years later, in 2008, I was asked by a colleague to help ‘sling’ some luggage for the Tour for Kids (Ontario Ride). Naturally, I jumped at the opportunity, not quite sure what I was in for…and four days later, working with the greatest team of coordinators, volunteers, passionate cyclists and seeing the smiles on the young boys and girls sealed my commitment to Tour for Kids and Coast to Coast Against Cancer Foundation.
It is an honour and privilege to join such an incredible team of volunteers as we commence our journey across our incredible nation with one collective goal – to ensure kids battling cancer have every opportunity to succeed and have the necessary support.
Look forward to serving our riders with a big smile and big heart – please take a moment to support my volunteer journey by checking out my blog as well as considering a donation…let’s make a difference today and everyday.
