Simi Valley Names 90-Year-Old Police Chaplain as 2026 Volunteer of the Year
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — The City Council named Bill Martin as Volunteer of the Year during its June 22 meeting. Martin, a police chaplain who is nearly 90 years old, logged more than 500 volunteer hours over the past year.
Martin serves as a chaplain with the Police Department. He attends officer briefings, shows up at DUI checkpoints, and responds when officers or their families face personal crises. His work extends beyond the department. He also volunteers weekly with the Knights of Columbus at St. Rose of Lima Church, where he helps prepare and serve meals to people experiencing homelessness.
Police Chief Steve Shorts said Martin brings more than just presence to the job. "Bill is a dedicated and hardworking individual who is always willing to roll up his sleeves and assist the community in achieving its objectives and initiatives," Shorts said. "He does a remarkable job as a Police Chaplain, and his upbeat, positive attitude, along with his unwavering willingness to support residents and employees in their times of need, makes him truly exceptional."
The city presents the Volunteer of the Year award annually to recognize residents whose contributions leave a lasting mark. Thousands of people volunteer across the city each year. The award highlights one person whose work stands out.
Martin's age and volunteer hours set him apart this year. Continuing this level of service at nearly 90 requires physical stamina and a consistent willingness to show up. His work spans both emergency response and regular community support, connecting two different populations who need help.
The chaplain role in law enforcement is not ceremonial. Chaplains often arrive at scenes of trauma, officer-involved incidents, and family notifications. They provide emotional support in moments when officers and residents are at their most vulnerable. Martin has built relationships within the department that allow him to offer that support effectively.
His work at St. Rose of Lima Church adds a second layer of service. Feeding people who are homeless requires logistical coordination and weekly commitment. The Knights of Columbus program depends on volunteers like Martin to function.
The City Council recognized Martin at its June 22 meeting. The full presentation is available on the city's website under archived City Council meetings. Residents who want to learn more about volunteer opportunities can visit www.simivalley.org for information on how to get involved with city programs.
Martin's recognition reflects a broader volunteer culture. The city relies on resident participation to support public safety, neighborhood programs, and services for vulnerable populations. His example shows what sustained service looks like over time.
