Lauderhill expands policing programs to boost public safety

The City of Lauderhill is expanding a series of year-round community programs aimed at strengthening public safety, supporting youth development and improving residents' quality of life through partnerships between law enforcement and the community.

City officials said the initiatives are designed to build trust between residents and police while providing educational opportunities, mentorship and neighborhood engagement beyond traditional law enforcement.

"Public safety and quality of life go hand in hand," Mayor Denise D. Grant said in a statement. "Our goal is to create a city where residents feel safe, supported and connected. Through these programs, we are investing in our youth, strengthening community relationships, promoting wellness, and creating opportunities for residents to actively participate in building a stronger Lauderhill."

Among the city's school-based efforts is the Parkway Middle School Mentorship Program, which pairs police officers with students throughout the academic year to encourage academic achievement, positive decision-making and mentorship. Elementary school students also participate in Safety Town, an interactive program that teaches personal safety, fire prevention, traffic awareness and stranger safety through activities led by police and fire personnel.

City Manager Kennie Hobbs Jr. said the initiatives reflect the city's long-term investment in residents at every stage of life.

"Creating a safe and thriving community requires more than enforcement; it requires investment, engagement, and partnership," Hobbs said. "By investing in youth development, community trust, public education, and neighborhood engagement, we are helping build a stronger quality of life for everyone who lives, works, and does business in Lauderhill."

During the summer, the Lauderhill Police Department offers a Youth Police Academy for children ages 12 to 17, providing participants with an inside look at law enforcement through leadership activities and educational programs. Older teens can also join the Police Explorer Program, which focuses on leadership development, community service, mentorship and careers in law enforcement.

Officials said community engagement continues throughout the year with initiatives such as Coffee with a Cop, which gives residents and business owners an opportunity to meet informally with officers to discuss neighborhood concerns and public safety issues. The Citizens Police Academy also offers residents a behind-the-scenes look at police operations and community policing strategies.

The city also promotes health and community connection through Slow Roll, a recurring community bicycle ride that brings residents and police officers together while encouraging fitness and neighborhood awareness.

Family-oriented public safety events remain a key part of the city's outreach efforts, including Halloween Safety Day and National Night Out, which feature safety demonstrations, educational exhibits, games, entertainment and opportunities for residents to interact with police officers, firefighters and community partners.

During the holiday season, the city continues its youth outreach through Shop with a Cop, sponsored in partnership with Target Corporation, and its Secret Santa program. Shop with a Cop gives selected children the opportunity to spend time with police officers before receiving holiday gifts, while Secret Santa recognizes elementary school students for leadership, integrity, perseverance and good citizenship with bicycles and other gifts.

Lauderhill Police Chief Constance Stanley said the programs help strengthen relationships between officers and the community.

"Community policing is built on partnerships, communication, and trust," Stanley said. "These programs help us connect with residents of all ages, support youth development, promote safety education, and create meaningful opportunities for engagement. Together, we are building a safer, stronger Lauderhill."

City officials said the programs remain central to Lauderhill's broader strategy to improve neighborhood safety, encourage civic engagement and create opportunities for residents to thrive.