Debbie Hill, vice-chairwoman of Blue Light Dunedin, has been a volunteer with the registered charity for the past 16 years.
That work has been recognised at a national level, with the 44-year-old being named Blue Light patron of the year at a function this month.
She was honoured to receive the award, she said.
''I love working with the kids and my fellow workmates, and seeing the difference we make.''
Mrs Hill, who has worked as a non-sworn police employee for the past 17 years, said the charity had changed from running mainly ''classic discos'' to a range of varied activities.
That dedication was backed by Inspector Al Dickie, who nominated Mrs Hill and cited her volunteering, promotion, planning and fundraising work.
Those events include Blue Light discos, fishing competitions, Relay for Life, cancer fundraisers and police station open days, he said.
Insp Dickie noted her work in arranging a Blue Light sponsored car courtesy of Cooke Howlison.
''Debbie has been at the forefront of most of the events mentioned in terms of co-ordination and doing the hard yards.''
