Coffee With A Cop!

KDPS to host Coffee with a Cop on Thursday, March 20th, 2014 Program offers opportunity to meet local officers and discuss community issues

KALAMAZOO, MI— On 3/20/2014, officers from Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety and community members will come together in an informal, neutral place to discuss community issues, build relationships, and drink coffee.

All community members are invited to attend. The event begins at 10 AM to 12PM on 3/20/2014 at Fourth Coast Café at 816 S. Westnedge Ave. Please contact PSO Brandon Noble with questions: 269-337-8932 nobleb@kalamazoocity.org

Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Kalamazoo’s neighborhoods.

The majority of contacts 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.  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 PSO Brandon Noble. “These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships.”

The program aims to advance the practice of community policing through improving relationships between police officers and community members.

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.