NYCPF FY 22 Annual Report Final - Flipbook - Page 11
BUILDING TRUST AND
STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES
THE FOUNDATION HAS A LONG HISTORY OF BRINGING THE POLICE AND
COMMUNITIES TOGETHER. THROUGH INCREASED DIALOGUE AND POSITIVE
INTERACTIONS – INCLUDING CREATING MEANINGFUL OPPORTUNITIES FOR
YOUTH – WE LAY THE GROUNDWORK TO RESOLVE NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERNS
AND ENHANCE SAFETY FOR ALL. THE PUBLIC’S PARTNERSHIP WITH THE NYPD IS
ESSENTIAL TO THE SAFETY AND STRENGTH OF ALL OUR NEIGHBORHOODS.
Established in 2018, more than 28,000 young people have participated in OPTIONS workshops at schools,
Administration for Children Services (ACS), New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), and District Attorney
(DA) facilities.
Police officers and young people engage in open discussions about real-life situations and the challenges
faced by today’s youth and their families. The curriculum uses virtual reality training-based scenarios to
promote discussion on emotional intelligence and wellness, decision-making, financial literacy, and healthy
communities.
In addition to school presentations, Wellness Centers are being established throughout the city that provide
a safe and creative space for young people to participate in multiple OPTIONS workshops designed to
further their personal and professional development. The NYPD OPTIONS Wellness Center in the Bronx (48
Precinct) and the NYPD Community Center in Brooklyn (75 Precinct) are currently open with more to open
in Summer 2023.
These centers will provide Virtual Reality Training labs to continue social-emotional intelligence training,
wellness information and activities, and Financial Management classes. Professional Development services
include life skills, resume writing, job interview training, and basic computer skills. Workshops also include
Pre-coding, Videography/Photography/Communications/Social Media Marketing, Podcast production,
trades training, and Augmented Reality Art/Music Programs.
Being part of OPTIONS has been a remarkable experience. I had an inside
view of what my local police officers do in the community. After winning the
OPTIONS video contest in 2020 and becoming part of the OPTIONS family, I
have been awarded with opportunities, connections, and friends that will last
a lifetime. As a cadet, I use the skills I learned in OPTIONS to be the best I
can be and I can’t wait to become an NYPD Recruit in January 2025!
Thomas B., OPTIONS Participant
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