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NANBPWC -Toledo Club's First Vice President and Program
Chairman Denise Black-Poon served as Mistress of Ceremony.
Toledo Adult Club President Frances Collins, PhD; Stephanie
Kynard from the Maumee Bay Club and Jordan Collins from the
Toledo Youth Club welcomed everyone and emphasized how
important this program is to youth and adults.
Vanice Williams from the Maumee Bay Club shared the purpose
of "Safe Encounters" by explaining that the program is
designed to promote safe interactions between police and
citizens, particularly youth and young adults. It is
essential that we help young people learn how to respond
when approached by law enforcement officers.
The anticipated outcome is to build or re-establish
wholesome relationships between young people, especially
minorities, and law enforcement personnel.
Lieutenant John Hicklin of the Toledo Public Schools Dept
of Public Safety and Deputy Sheriff Sonya Randall, of the
Lucas County Sheriff's office partnered with NANBPWC Inc.,
to bring awareness and answer questions to help high school
students become more knowledgeable. Over 80 students from
the Cotillion Debutantes, Deb's N Waiting, Escorts and Youth
Club members were present to hear very important facts about
ways to respond if stopped by the police. Several adult
club members also attended the workshop.
Toledo Youth Club President Jordan Collins and Vice
President Jada Collins presented the Do's and Don't’s when
interacting with police officers.
Black-Poon gave pointers on "What to do if you are stopped
by the police.” She emphasized the importance of what to
say and to have proper identification.
Questions were addressed and the Officer Hicklin and Officer
Randall gave suggestions, life stories, scenarios and lots
of insight to help provide a better understanding of what
could happen in different situations. They stressed
that proper conduct is important for a person who may be a
suspect, as well as for those who are traveling with that
person. The officers mentioned how college campuses have
rules that are different from TPD, and other jurisdictions.
Everyone must know the laws and rights in every
city, campus, school, etc.
Cotillion Chairman Wilma Brown, Cotillion
Scholarships/Education Chairman Karen Jarrett and Denise
Caldwell continue to bring quality workshops for the youth
each week and encourage them to be courteous, responsible
and set goals. Officer Hicklin also asked youth to set goals
and be overachievers. Each officer believes respect is the
biggest part of "Safe Encounters"
The officers received certificates from the Toledo Club and
Maumee Bay Adult and Youth Clubs for their special
commitments and service to the community. |
