Kempton Park CPF chairperson marks 11 years of community service
His involvement in the CPF stems from his love for his city. Having lived in Kempton Park for 49 years, he feels a strong connection to the community and wants to do his part to make it a safer place for everyone.
Ronnie Ross-Allen, the chairperson of the Kempton Park Community Policing Forum (CPF), has dedicated 11 years to serving his community.
Having lived in Kempton Park for 49 years, he is involved in the CPF out of a love for his city, a strong connection to the community, and a desire to do his part to make it a safer place for everyone.
Ross-Allen said he will continue serving the community until crime is drastically reduced.
His motivation comes from knowing that his efforts, together with those of his fellow patrollers and police officers, can make a difference.
He said a typical patrol shift can sometimes mean waking up very early, especially when special operations take place. While the hours can be long and the work can be difficult, it is all worth it when the operation ends and there are no incidents to report.
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“What I enjoy most is keeping the community safe,” said Ross-Allen.
“Patrolling is not always easy. CPF members and their colleagues in blue are a minority in a big city. There are times when they become tired, lose confidence and ask themselves whether their efforts are really worth it.
“But the appreciation they receive from residents can give them the strength to continue.”
Two simple words mean a lot: “Thank you.”
Those words give him confidence and remind him why he continues to serve.
He said being a patroller has also changed how he sees his community.
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Knowing that he is doing something good and helping to keep people safe gives him a sense of satisfaction.
Ross-Allen believes that a good CPF member needs dedication, a love for the community, and a willingness to stand up and fight for it.
Balancing work, family life and CPF responsibilities can sometimes be difficult, but he has managed with the support of his family, workplace and community.
His family also plays an important role in his journey.
His daughter is a patroller, while his wife has always encouraged him to continue serving.
Knowing that his granddaughter feels safe makes all the effort worthwhile.
He believes the CPF plays an important role in improving safety in Kempton Park.
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“The police cannot do everything on their own, and the community has a responsibility to support them.
“We must be the eyes and ears for the police and make a very difficult job a little easier,” said Ross-Allen.
He also wants residents to understand that CPF members are not a replacement for the police. Instead, they are a force multiplier who support the police wherever they can.
“Their work is voluntary, and members give their time because they care about their community.”
He said residents can support CPF patrollers by simply showing appreciation. Even saying “thank you” can make a difference.
Community members who want to make a difference are also encouraged to consider joining the CPF.
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His advice to anyone considering becoming a patroller is clear: understand that it is voluntary and that there is no payment.
You must do it because you love your community, are dedicated, and do not expect anything in return. Ross-Allen hopes that Kempton Park will become a safer place for everyone who lives in the city.
