It is with great pride that we nominate Sgt. Devon Archer of the Ottawa Police Service for the Police Services Hero of the Year Award in the category of Community Role Model.
Throughout his career, Sgt. Archer has gone far beyond the expectations of the job by creating and leading innovative, youth-focused initiatives that strengthen trust with vulnerable and underrepresented communities, foster mentorship, and invest directly in Ottawa’s next generation. Whether playing in a league match or engaging youth in the community, he often says, “If we can play together, we can work together.” That philosophy has become the foundation of his approach to community building.
Recognizing the impact of pandemic-related isolation on young people, Sgt. Archer spearheaded the “Grow a Writer” program in partnership with Baico Publishing. The initiative invites youth aged 8–16 to submit original short stories for publication, providing a powerful creative outlet and a meaningful opportunity to have their voices heard. What began as a literacy initiative has grown into a dynamic community-building platform that empowers youth, builds confidence, and promotes positive engagement with police officers.
The program receives dozens of submissions annually, with many young authors becoming published writers. All proceeds from book sales are reinvested into the community in the form of scholarships for youth in need — ensuring the initiative creates lasting educational impact beyond the printed page.
Sgt. Archer’s commitment to youth engagement does not stop there. He founded Ottawa Police Blues FC, a soccer team dedicated to uniting the community through sport while fostering positive relationships between police and residents. Under his leadership, the Blues run several impactful initiatives that embody teamwork, mentorship, and service:
- Junior Blues Soccer Program – A free eight-week soccer and mentorship program for marginalized youth aged 8–16, led by Ottawa Police officers and team members. Each week combines soccer skills development and fitness training with educational workshops focused on life skills and positive decision-making.
- Charity Shield Match – An annual match between the Blues and the Ottawa Paramedic Pacemakers, with funds directed toward youth initiatives such as Grow a Writer.
- Erik Czapnik Memorial Tournament – Honouring fallen OPS officer Constable Eric Czapnik, who was killed in the line of duty in 2009, this tournament brings together emergency services personnel to raise funds and support local charities while preserving his legacy of service.
Beyond these initiatives, Sgt. Archer also established and runs the Emergency Services Soccer League — providing Ottawa’s first responders with a positive outlet to build camaraderie and resilience despite the adversity they face in their professions.
In 2025, Sgt. Archer represented the OPS in hosting the 44th Annual North American Police Soccer Tournament (NAPST) in Ottawa, welcoming police officers from across North America to compete in matches designed to foster teamwork, fitness, and solidarity within law enforcement. All tournament proceeds were donated to the National Capital Blues Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by Sgt. Archer that supports at-risk youth in Ottawa through sports, education, and community initiatives.
Additionally, Sgt. Archer organizes an annual memorial youth soccer game in honour of local youth Tyson Ndongozi Nkuzimana, who was tragically murdered in 2021. This event serves as a meaningful opportunity to build trust and confidence between the Ottawa Police Service and the Barundi community, while engaging in open dialogue about the impacts of gun violence and pathways to prevention.
Through these sustained efforts — both on and off duty — Sgt. Archer has redefined what proactive, relationship-based policing looks like. He has built bridges through literacy, mentorship, sport, and remembrance, creating consistent, positive touchpoints between police and youth across Ottawa.
His work demonstrates initiative, compassion, and leadership well beyond standard job expectations. By investing in youth development, promoting literacy, strengthening first responder wellness, and fostering community partnerships, Sgt. Archer exemplifies the very spirit of the Community Role Model award.
Sgt. Devon Archer is not only serving his community — he is shaping its future.
