The goal is for youth to enjoy a positive experience with police officers and learn to respect one another and people in the community. Many of the 16 children were not aware of the park district facilities and now they are. Our philosophy has always been that if they're inside our building playing basketball or ping-pong or swimming at the pool, they aren't out getting involved in something that is not constructive. Also, our involvement gives us the opportunity to form a stronger relationship with the police department. In any relationship, there is work.
Nothing just happens.
Opening a line of communication is the largest obstacle. Once you have a contact who is committed to making it happen, things change instantly. You have someone to call when the officer or recreation staff member does not do exactly what should have been done. It can be worked out, instead of left alone to fester. Recognizing the importance and problems of both sides nurtures patience and creates the possibility for success.