Last week, Operation Red Nose launched, for the 11th year in Portage la Prairie.

It provides rides home for holiday party-goers, and brings their vehicle back as well.

The launch was bitter-sweet for Cindy Mulder, who brought Red Nose to Portage 10 years ago, but won't be involved any more. As she leaves, she feels good about what Red Nose means for the community.

"Keeping streets safe," she says, "Keeping drunk drivers, and people that don't feel fit enough to drive, off the roads. This is near and dear to my heart, but these guys (Leo Lapointe and crew) will do an amazing job. They'll carry on, and we're going to hit that 500 ride mark this year."

Mulder isn't surprised at how the community's embraced Operation Red Nose.

"Because the kids that have seen it, have grown up with the no drinking, no driving, being responsible" she says, "So they understand way better. they're a lot smarter than back in the day."

Mulder's proud of what's been accomplished, with a steady increase in use over the years, leading to 2016's 497 rides. She received a certificate recognizing her contribution at the launch.

Cindy Mulder with her certificate