May 15, 2021, has been proclaimed as Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 9 through May 15 as Police Week. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio would like to take this week to recognize our law enforcement partners who have joined us in the effort of rebuilding trust between our youth and the law enforcement community through the process of mentorship.
The Bigs In Blue and Bigs With Badges mentorship programs serve two essential purposes. The first, supporting one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Second, provide a safe and engaging environment that will enhance the mentor’s (Big) and mentee’s (Little) cultural competence by building trust and respect, thus removing implicit biases.
Our law enforcement partners spend long hours ensuring our safety. When not on duty, they spend time working to make positive interactions with children in our community or supporting fundraisers. As we recognize Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week, we honor those who lost their lives in the line of duty and thank the law enforcement community for their service.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio would like to give a special thanks to our partners: Toledo Police Department, Bowling Green State University Police Department, Perrysburg Police Department, Perrysburg Township Police Department, and the Wood County Sheriff’s Office.
Dr. Marvin Whitfield, CEO