Editor's Note: Kiwanis Club of Carson City was accidentally omitted from the list of donors and contributors. We apologize for the error.
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With more than 1,400 hot dogs and buns, 700 sodas, 800 bottles of water, coffee, music, games and prizes all dished up and out to the community Saturday, the 12th Annual Carson City Sheriff's Office Cops and Kids Open House will roll out rain or shine, said Carson City Sheriff Ken Furlong.
“Cops and Kids – Where the Community and Law Enforcement Come Together” is the theme where safety, crime and substance abuse awareness are highlighted with games, entertainment and fun for the family. The event is Saturday, May 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 911 E. Musser Street, Carson City, Nev.
Sheriff Furlong advised that if the weather does not cooperate “we are moving inside. This event is going to happen!”
Cops and Kids Sheriff’s Open House was started by Sheriff Furlong as part of the community policing efforts implemented by his administration to help build positive relationships between law enforcement, youth and citizens of all ages. Youth are able to meet good role models and participate in positive alternative activities.
“Interacting with youth gives them a sense of belonging and ownership both with the sheriff’s office and with the community, said Sheriff Furlong. "Youth follow our example, therefore this is the perfect time for divisions and departments to come together and model the integrity of law enforcement and public safety set forth in our ethics and Code of Conduct."
“As we continue to build positive relationships with our youth, it is important to realize the strength of bond established at very early ages. For a young boy or girl to be able to identify with an officer/deputy by first name, barriers are reduced and trust with confidence is built,” he said.
“This event offers something for people of all ages,” said DARE Officer and organizer Lisa Davis. “There is always something new to see and experience.”
Everyone is invited check out all of our local law enforcement programs – including Nevada Highway Patrol. We encourage every citizen to visit with members of the K-9 Unit, Motors, Special Enforcement Team, S.W.A.T., Detectives, Dispatch, CSI Crime Lab, Evidence, Explorers, Detention, Patrol, and DARE.
Local agencies including the Kiwanis, Partnership Carson City, Advocates to End Domestic Violence, Boys and Girls Club of Northern Nevada, CASA, The Children’s Museum, Empty Bowls, Food for Thought, and more will be on hand with games and hands-on activities. This is an excellent opportunity for parents to find out about summer youth activities available in Carson City.
Cops and Kids Sheriff’s Open House began as an effort to give back to the community. It is partially funded by Justice Assistance Grant, but the event has grown beyond grant capability.
Local businesses partner with Carson City Sheriff’s Office defray costs. Grocery Outlet donates hot dogs, buns and beverages. Kemp’s Fun Jumpers provides the bounce house. Northern Nevada Coin, Manny’s One Stop Shop Automotive Repair, Liz’s Biz, Dan Kimm Rock It Productions, Kiwanis Club, American Family Insurance and Jamba Juice all donate or provide services to help minimize the cost.
Undersheriff Steve Albertsen said, “These businesses give so much to make this event a success. Our sponsors increase every year. It would be impossible to maintain the growth of this event without their help.”
Carson City Sheriff’s Office is strides to build strong positive partnerships between law enforcement, youth and the community. We hope you join us! For more information call Lisa Davis at (775) 283-7809.