Ballwin Police Department and The Wolf to host “Coffee with a Cop” on October 12
Program offers opportunity to meet local officers, discuss community issues
BALLWIN—On October 12, officers from the Ballwin Police Department and community members will come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships, and drink coffee, (provided free of charge by The Wolf).
All community members are invited to attend. The event runs from 9 to 11 AM on October 12th at The Wolf, 15480 Clayton Road. Please contact Sgt. Jim Heldmann with questions: (636) 207-2351 or jheldmann@ballwin.mo.us
Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Ballwin’s neighborhoods.
The majority of contacts that law enforcement has with the public happen during emergencies, or emotional situations. Those situations are not always the most effective times for relationship building with the community and some community members may feel that officers are unapproachable on the street. Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction.
“We hope that community members will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know our officers,” said Ballwin Police Chief Steve Schicker. “These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships.”
Coffee with a Cop is a national initiative supported by The United States Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services. Similar events are being held across the county, as local police departments strive to make lasting connections with the communities they serve.
The program aims to advance the practice of community policing through improving relationships between police officers and community members one cup of coffee at a time.