COMMUNITY INITIATIVES
The Patrol has built relationships with Neighborhood Groups, Senior Centers, small businesses and residents. We have faced many challenges in the community that demanded immediate attention. Most of these issues were crime-related or lack of community involvement issues that needed to be enforced. After reviewing concerns from the O4WP members and gathering crime data, we formulated a plan to address these issues.
MENTORING PROGRAM FOR AT-RISK TEENAGERS
This program was provided by the O4WP as an alternative to keep young males that committed crimes from entering the Penal System
Lt. Isom noticed some of the young males in the community were headed down the wrong path and about to become a ward of the state or put themselves in danger. These young men dropped out of school and were committing crimes inside the neighborhood. They would steal tip money from jars placed at the store’s entrance, break into vehicles and take items, and snatch phones from individuals and run. Lt. Isom mentored these individuals about goals, job opportunities and limitations thereof without a High School diploma, and deep conversations regarding incarceration or worse. Lt Isom keeps a close watch on the community and actively seeks to mentor and advise those most at risk.
O4WP HOMELESS INITIATIVE
This program was designed to help some of the homeless men and women in the O4W by giving them jobs cutting grass and raking leaves
There are several homeless persons inside the neighborhood that need employment. They would knock on doors and ask if they could render yard service. Some would beg for alms. Residents have the passion to be an ambassador, but at the same time, remain cautious. Lt. Isom and the Patrol came up with a job-work program. We went to Nextdoor Neighbors and advertised our services. The response was overwhelming and some have donated equipment. We have partnered with Home Depot and Lt. Isom has been able to procure supplies. These individuals are under Lt. Isom's supervision and all payments could be made to Lt. Isom and the funds would be passed on to the workers. Several enthusiastic persons contacted us and we were able to rake, mow and trim several lawns. This program is still in existence. Lt. Isom has established a bond with these guys over the last ten years and he makes sure that these individuals have food and clothing. Money is given to them as needed. If a crime is committed within their presence or if they have knowledge of a particular incident, they relay this information to the Patrol.