Connecting to Community
Local law enforcement engages with citizens
Thanks to various community programs, youth and adults can participate in activities that help keep the community safe. Among these is the Cape Coral Police Department (CCPD), which offers a variety of ways that community members can get involved. One example is its Explorer program, designed for those who are 16 and older and want to learn about responsibility, duty, honor and the law. “This program is active and up and running,” says public affairs officer Patrick O’Grady. Also operational is the CCPD’s Do the Right Thing program, which recognizes students who are doing good things in the community. Each year, more than 100 students are given an award at their school for doing the right thing, such as collecting toys for underprivileged children, picking up litter or helping an elderly neighbor with chores.
CCPD also offers programs for adults. Twice a year, it runs the Citizens Police Academy, where enrollees attend a 10-week program and then participate in activities such as police communications and traffic safety.
“We also have an amazing volunteer unit. They help with so many situations,” says O’Grady. The volunteers can help direct traffic, patrol waterways, engage in parking enforcement and work at special events such as the Red, White, and BOOM! celebration on July 4. “Their volunteering to help our community saves the city thousands of dollars each year,” adds O’Grady.