Oct. 13, 2011
Sunday, Oct. 16, will be the first Public Safety Sunday, a day of community interaction between the faith-based community and Phoenix Police. Public Safety Sunday is a result of recommendations from the Community Engagement and Outreach Implementation Task Force, a group of 32 residents representing a cross-section of the community that was formed in April 2010 to provide input on how Phoenix Police could improve interaction with residents.
The chosen theme for the event is “Increase the Peace – Unity in the Community,” and the goal is to engage more residents in strengthening their relationships with law enforcement.
“Safety is the core of our society. This means that collaboration is essential and communication must be transparent to effectively address community needs and relevant safety issues,” said Raul Monreal, Community Engagement and Outreach Task Force member and associate dean, South Mountain Community College.
Public Safety Sunday was one of 34 specific recommendations provided by the group.
“This is a way for the community and the Police Department to build trust, confidence, and mutual respect,” said Jeri Auther, Community Engagement and Outreach Task Force member and member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce.
Churches from around Phoenix have invited local precinct police officers to speak at services throughout the day, to provide updates on police activities and to hear from residents about whatever is on their minds.
“Public Safety Sunday is an opportunity for the faith community to engage in our civic responsibility to help create safe communities using a holistic approach that addresses mind, body and spirit,” said Shawn Pearson, founder and chief executive officer of Kingdom Communities of the Valley.The following are scheduled as part of Public Safety Sunday:
- 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. First New Life MBC, 1902 W. Roeser Road, Assistant Chief Kevin Robinson, Commander Mike Kurtenbach and Commander Chris Crockett
- 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Southminster Presbyterian, 1923 E. Broadway Road, Commander Chris Crockett and Community Engagement and Outreach Task Force member Shawn Pearson
- 11 a.m. Christian Family Center, 4901 W. Indian School Road, Detective Luis Samudio
- 11 a.m. Iglesia Bautista El Faro, 4601 S. 7th St., Sergeant Mark Tovar
- 11 a.m. Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, 1401 E. Jefferson St., Chief Joe Yahner, Assistant Chief Kevin Robinson
- 11 a.m. Progressive Church of God in Christ, 2108 E. Broadway Road, Commander Chris Crockett
- 1 p.m. Grupo Amistad, 7949 W. Indian School Road, Detective Luis Samudio
Media Contact:
| Luis Samudio | 602-463-0235 |