Staff Sergeant Devon Archer wins Hero of the Year

Staff Sergeant Devon Archer of the Ottawa Police Service won a 2026 Ontario Police Association Hero of the Year award, recognizing a career defined not only by service in uniform, but by a sustained commitment to youth, mentorship, and community connection.

For years, S/Sgt. Archer has built programs that reach far beyond traditional policing. At the centre of his approach is a simple idea he often shares with young people: when someone helps you climb, you don’t stop there—you reach back and help the next person up. That mindset has shaped a body of work that continues to influence children and families across Ottawa.

One of his most impactful initiatives, the “Grow a Writer” program, began during the pandemic as a way to stay connected with youth during a time of isolation. What started as a creative outreach effort has since grown into a yearly publishing project. Working with local partners, S/Sgt. Archer helps young participants turn their ideas into a printed book, which is then personally delivered to the student authors. For many, it is their first experience being published and a moment that has helped build confidence, pride, and a lasting sense of possibility. This year’s program launched on June 5, and submissions are open until August 10.

Beyond literacy, S/Sgt. Archer has also used sport as a bridge between communities and police. He founded the Ottawa Blues FC in 2011, built on the belief that teamwork on the field can translate into understanding off of it. The program has since expanded into the Ottawa Emergency Services League, bringing together police, paramedics, firefighters, correctional officers, and other public safety partners in friendly competition that raises funds for youth programming.

Through the Junior Blues Soccer Program, youth participate in structured weekly sessions that combine physical activity, skill development, and mentorship. Each program concludes with educational workshops tailored to participants’ needs—ranging from financial literacy to introductions to various public service careers. The initiative has also provided meaningful support to newcomers, helping young people build connections in their new communities.

Colleagues and community partners point to S/Sgt. Archer’s consistency as what sets him apart. His work is not defined by a single initiative, but by years of sustained engagement, often behind the scenes, supporting at-risk youth through scholarships, outreach, and opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.

While S/Sgt. Archer is the recipient of this year’s Hero of the Year Award, he is quick to credit the many partners, volunteers, and community members who have helped bring these programs to life. For him, the recognition reflects a collective effort aimed at one goal: making sure young people in Ottawa are seen, supported, and given the chance to succeed.