Connie Hagel started the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Estevan chapter just about two years ago, but a lot has been achieved since then, which wasn't left unnoticed.
It was recently announced that Hagel is to receive recognition from MADD Canada as a volunteer of the year.
"I didn't know I was nominated, and it was a surprise," said Hagel in the interview with the Mercury. "I'm humbled. I didn't think I did anything that significant (and) I would get an award like that because I've looked at other people that received the award, their portfolios, and they've done much, much more than I did. But I guess somebody thought that I was deserving."
Estevan Police Chief Paul Ladouceur, along with the Western Canada regional MADD manager, were the ones who nominated Hagel for the annual national award. And while she didn't think she's done enough, Hagel's "Impaired Driver Caught Here" sign campaign gained national attention and was picked up by other chapters across Canada.
"I guess because this is the project that I invented, and it has gone national, it is a big thing for MADD Canada," said Hagel. "When we do something to raise awareness and it's that impactful, and it does go nation-wide then I guess it's something for MADD Canada to recognize."
The idea of putting special signs where the Estevan Police Service (EPS) members pulled over impaired drivers was created by Hagel and Ladouceur in the spring of 2019, as they were "trying to think of different ways to raise more awareness," explained Hagel.
"I thought, 'Well, people get caught driving impaired in residential areas as well, not just on main streets.' And I thought I needed something to make people aware that 'Hey, you know, there are people getting caught,'" recalled Hagel.
The program is ongoing, and signs are constantly being rotated between various places in the community where impaired drivers were caught.
Hagel pointed out that these signs are a good reminder that it's never a good idea to get behind the wheel after a person had a few drinks, and it doesn't matter if they have to go somewhere close, impaired driving that puts other people in danger is not acceptable.
And since the idea emerged, it was first picked up by other communities in Saskatchewan, including Saskatoon and Regina, and then spread further and was found to be useful in other provinces.
"It's getting results. It's raising awareness, so that's a good thing," Hagel said.
Estevan's MADD chapter also has other projects and programs they are involved with. Volunteers recently could be seen handing out red ribbons to motorists, which could be displayed on vehicles in support of sober driving. They were at a few Estevan Bruins games last season promoting safe driving habits, and they also regularly participate in EPS check stops, thanking people for driving sober.
Hagel said that she feels that the local MADD chapter has a strong impact on the community.
"The number of impaired drivers is down, but that will never stop. Our goal is to have no impaired drivers, but that will never stop. So as long as there are some out there, that program is still going to work," Hagel said.
The awards are usually presented at the national conference, which took place mid-November, but this year it was virtual due to the pandemic. So Hagel's award is now on its way to Estevan. Once it makes it here, the police chief will present it to her.
In the meantime, Hagel continues with raising awareness in the community, hoping that their goal of zero impaired drivers will be reached one day.
"I just want to keep people aware not to drink and drive, or be high and drive. Don't drive impaired!" said Hagel.
