Oviedo Police Department Revives Trading Card Program to Foster Community Connections
OVIEDO, Fla. – The Oviedo Police Department is reigniting a beloved community initiative aimed at strengthening ties between law enforcement and local families. The department has introduced a trading card program designed to create meaningful relationships with children and enhance community engagement.
Key Details:
– The Oviedo Police Department has launched a trading card initiative that features officers from the force.
– Cards are distributed during spontaneous community engagements, enhancing surprise and excitement.
– This program echoes similar efforts undertaken by the department in 2006 and 2008.
– Children who collect all 16 unique cards will be eligible for a special reward.
The trading cards serve as a tangible mechanism for building rapport between officers and the younger population. Officer Luis Garcia-Chow remarked, “It’s that first step in fostering some sort of connection. That’s all it really does.” These interactions highlight the importance of trust in community relationships, encouraging open dialogue with law enforcement.
Each trading card features a real officer, capturing the essence of those who serve the Oviedo community. The initiative employs a surprise element in its execution, with officers appearing at unannounced locations, generally for no more than 30 minutes. This strategic approach compels families to engage with the Oviedo Police Department through social media to learn about upcoming appearances and gatherings.
Lt. Adam Egert of the Oviedo Police Department shared that findings from previously implemented programs revealed significant benefits. “I have mine from 2008 on my desk. Every time we hire new officers or they come into my office, they always make a comment, ‘We should do that again,’” he noted. This nostalgic reflection underscores the lasting impact that such initiatives can have on community perception of law enforcement.
The excitement generated from these engagements generates recognition that persists beyond the initial exchanges. Egert added, “A lot of kids are really excited to see a cop, and then to have a baseball card of a cop is even more exciting.” The program aims to establish familiarity and a sense of safety among young residents, forging a connection that is beneficial for both community members and officers.
The trading card initiative not only promises enjoyment but also encourages responsibility among young participants. Those who successfully collect all 16 cards will receive a unique prize, further incentivizing engagement with local law enforcement.
Scheduled to run for several months, the Oviedo Police Department encourages families to follow their social media channels for updates on future community pop-up locations. This initiative exemplifies innovative strategies to bridge the gap between police and community, ultimately fostering a safer, more interconnected environment for all.
