Coffee, cops and conversation
A bustling combination of law enforcement officers, firefighters and paramedics shook hands, sipped coffee and shared ideas with the public Saturday during “Coffee and Cops” at Brevity Coffee, at 428 W. Bandera Road, across from H-E-B. Typically, the chance to speak with these public servants occurs during times of crisis, injury or when you are the victim of, or witness to, a crime. However, this event provided the public with an opportunity to connect with the men and women who respond to their calls for help, often during the worst times in a person’s life.
“Coffee with a Cop” brings police officers and community members together to discuss community issues and learn more about each other over coffee in a very informal setting. This event is based on the “National Coffee with a Cop” program, which will celebrate its ninth anniversary this October (https://coffeewithacop. com/).
Attendees, ranging from young teens to retired veterans and grandparents, were able to share both concerns and praise with those in attendance. Boerne Police Chief Steve Perez and Fair Oaks Ranch Police Chief Todd Smith discussed strategies and programs their departments provide to the community and listened to public concerns.
The stated goal of the national program is to foster trust and communication between the public and police in a casual environment. Nationwide, the program has conducted more than 15,000 events across 50 states, 40 countries, and in nine languages.
The Kendall County program mirrors its national counterpart, being agenda-free and barrier-free, with the goal of solving problems. Kendall County goes a step further by bringing all area public safety agencies to the event.
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