To the community,

At the recent Lake Tahoe Air Fest the Sheriff’s Team of Active Retirees (STAR) assisted handicapped attendees park their cars, making sure they were aboard a shuttle bound for the action on the tarmac. This is one of several activities the STAR volunteers do throughout the year.

The group is presently looking for enthusiastic men and women aged 50 and over to help in their year-round activities in the Lake Tahoe Basin. The group meets monthly with a sheriff’s deputy and are updated on the needs of the county’s law enforcement agency. Routinely, STAR volunteers patrol Tahoe area neighborhoods, trail heads and beaches, check on live-alones, and do vacation home checks for traveling locals.

Other activities throughout the year include participation in Every 15 Minutes (drunk driving education for high school juniors-seniors), The Drug Store Project (drug and alcohol deterrent for middle school students), Treat Street (Halloween activities for young people and parents), and provide extra support during emergencies.

After a background check and an interview by a deputy, candidates for membership attend a two-week STAR training academy taught by sheriff’s office staff, wear a STAR uniform and become members of a dedicated and fun group of community service volunteers. To apply, visit the sheriff’s office at 1360 Johnson Blvd. in South Lake Tahoe or call (530) 573.3000. The academy will be scheduled this fall.

Joan Young, STAR volunteer