|
IODE Canada, on behalf of its members, established an award to recognize a member, unit or detachment of the RCMP for exemplary public service to their community outside of their official duties. Each year, the office of the Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police chooses the recipient. This award has been presented since 1992. |
Constable Andrew Nunez
Northwest Territories “G” Division
Northwest Territories “G” Division
Throughout his posting in Fort Providence, Constable Andrew Nunez demonstrated an exceptional commitment to volunteer service and community engagement, leaving a meaningful and lasting impact on the community. Grounded in compassion, inclusivity, and reconciliation, his approach helped strengthen trust in a community shaped by historical and intergenerational trauma.
Inspired from a young age to pursue a career in policing after being assisted by a city police officer when he became lost as a child, Constable Nunez has consistently embraced a people-first approach to policing. Drawing on his experience serving in the North, he recognizes that strong relationships are essential to effective community policing and conflict prevention.
Constable Nunez’s dedication became especially evident while recovering from an injury that kept him on limited duties for eleven months. Rather than stepping away from community involvement, he asked if he could volunteer his time to develop programs and create opportunities for residents to connect.
“I wanted to do stuff for the community while I was still in the community,” said Nunez. “One of the things that this community was missing was doing a lot of community programs.”
Beginning with community meetings and conversations with residents, Nunez gathered volunteers and encouraged people to share ideas. “I wanted the community to voice out their ideas, and my job was just to develop and plan these ideas,” he explained.
During December 2024, Constable Nunez voluntarily assumed responsibility for organizing and coordinating an unprecedented number of community initiatives, far exceeding the expectations of his role. His efforts resulted in the largest Christmas parade Fort Providence had ever seen — the first of its kind for the community of approximately 700 residents — with twenty vehicles transformed into parade floats.
The month also included a full calendar of inclusive events, including community meals, breakfasts, youth activities, and workshops. Nearly every day featured opportunities designed to bring residents of all ages together in a welcoming and positive environment.
His personal commitment extended beyond organizing events. Constable Nunez contributed his own time and resources, including donating personal property to the local Youth Centre and helping the Hamlet secure approximately $25,000 in community funding. He also encouraged fellow RCMP members to participate, helping foster a culture of community-based policing.
His supervisor, Sgt. Kevin Devoe, reflected on both the challenges and strengths within the community and noted that reconciliation and resolving conflict at the lowest level remain important priorities. Devoe described Nunez as deeply respected and said the recognition he received validates the important work continuing in Fort Providence.
Constable Nunez learned of his award through a text message from his supervisor, unaware he had even been nominated. He described receiving the recognition as a humbling experience.
For Nunez, one of the most meaningful outcomes of his work came through the relationships he built.
“Some of the community members started calling me by my first name,” he said. “To see me as a human being, not just a robot … that was really neat to see.”
Through his genuine altruism, leadership, and commitment to service, Constable Andrew Nunez has made a significant contribution to community well-being and reconciliation, bringing great credit to himself and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Inspired from a young age to pursue a career in policing after being assisted by a city police officer when he became lost as a child, Constable Nunez has consistently embraced a people-first approach to policing. Drawing on his experience serving in the North, he recognizes that strong relationships are essential to effective community policing and conflict prevention.
Constable Nunez’s dedication became especially evident while recovering from an injury that kept him on limited duties for eleven months. Rather than stepping away from community involvement, he asked if he could volunteer his time to develop programs and create opportunities for residents to connect.
“I wanted to do stuff for the community while I was still in the community,” said Nunez. “One of the things that this community was missing was doing a lot of community programs.”
Beginning with community meetings and conversations with residents, Nunez gathered volunteers and encouraged people to share ideas. “I wanted the community to voice out their ideas, and my job was just to develop and plan these ideas,” he explained.
During December 2024, Constable Nunez voluntarily assumed responsibility for organizing and coordinating an unprecedented number of community initiatives, far exceeding the expectations of his role. His efforts resulted in the largest Christmas parade Fort Providence had ever seen — the first of its kind for the community of approximately 700 residents — with twenty vehicles transformed into parade floats.
The month also included a full calendar of inclusive events, including community meals, breakfasts, youth activities, and workshops. Nearly every day featured opportunities designed to bring residents of all ages together in a welcoming and positive environment.
His personal commitment extended beyond organizing events. Constable Nunez contributed his own time and resources, including donating personal property to the local Youth Centre and helping the Hamlet secure approximately $25,000 in community funding. He also encouraged fellow RCMP members to participate, helping foster a culture of community-based policing.
His supervisor, Sgt. Kevin Devoe, reflected on both the challenges and strengths within the community and noted that reconciliation and resolving conflict at the lowest level remain important priorities. Devoe described Nunez as deeply respected and said the recognition he received validates the important work continuing in Fort Providence.
Constable Nunez learned of his award through a text message from his supervisor, unaware he had even been nominated. He described receiving the recognition as a humbling experience.
For Nunez, one of the most meaningful outcomes of his work came through the relationships he built.
“Some of the community members started calling me by my first name,” he said. “To see me as a human being, not just a robot … that was really neat to see.”
Through his genuine altruism, leadership, and commitment to service, Constable Andrew Nunez has made a significant contribution to community well-being and reconciliation, bringing great credit to himself and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
