'Change That Counts' campaign begins The City, in collaboration with faith-based, service provider and business community partners launched an awareness campaign Dec. 1 entitled: “Change That Counts – Help Those Who Help the Homeless”. The campaign will use a variety of different mediums – a website, social media outlets, flyers, bus billboards, and presentations – to encourage individuals to give their money to service providers to provide real help to the truly homeless. “Many of us don't know how to respond when we see a person on the street asking for money.  We may feel sympathetic, intimidated, uncomfortable or even pressured to give,” said Visalia Mayor Steve Nelsen.  “Giving money seems like a compassionate act and it may help people for the moment, but it often encourages destructive habits or stops them from seeking out help that could actually improve their lives.  Instead, give your donation to those who help the homeless get off the streets and take steps to change their lives forever.” Visalia Police Lt. Steven Phillips said it’s easy to confuse panhandlers with those who are truly homeless. “But, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, most panhandlers have places to live, and most homeless people do not panhandle.” For more information on how you can give help those who help the homeless with your money, go to www.helpvisaliahomeless.com. An online list of service providers gives avenues of options for your donation. If your faith-based or service club organization or business is interested in assisting with this effort, please contact Community Relations Manager Nancy Loliva at [email protected] or call (559) 713-4535. .

Wanted: Citizen Volunteers for VIPS Applications for the Volunteer in Police Service (VIPS) program will be accepted beginning Dec. 15. The program gives citizens the opportunity to serve their commnity while becoming part of the Visalia Police Department organization. Prospective volunteers will receive training during a 10-week academy that starts in May, 2014. Individuals selected will have the opportunity to ride with and learn from officers during their patrol shift. All classes are held at the Visalia Police Department headquarters on Thursday nights from 6 to 9 p.m. The Academy culminates with a graduation ceremony, and those completing the programs will be presented with certificates of participation and sworn in as "Volunteers in Police Service."