Cadets from Kent State University at Trumbull's Police Academy focused on serving more than justice last Friday by delivering meals and distributing Easter baskets to local families through the Warren Family Mission.
Cadets from the current full-time day class donated more than $300 in gift cards to the Mission and, aside from 239 Easter meals they delivered to local families, they also volunteered at the Mission’s 25th Annual Easter Dinner by serving and clearing tables.
According to Lori Singer-Bare, lecturer for the Peace Officer Training Academy and criminal justice studies program, these types of initiatives help separate Kent State Trumbull's Academy from other institutions.
"We take pride in being designated a STAR Academy by the Ohio Attorney General's Office, so we require additional training and community efforts like this," she said. "Our cadets are amazing."
Funds for the gift cards and cash donations were raised through March Madness “no-shave” and dress-down days at the academy. Those donations will help the Mission purchase back-to-school supplies for the next school year.
"We loved raising money and being part of this worthy initiative," Cadet and Class Commander Nate Kramer said. "Collaboration like this improves our community and our community members' quality of life."
Cadets were personally thanked for their support by Warren Mayor William "Doug" Franklin, who was present and part of the serving team that day.
Kent State Trumbull offers Basic Peace Officer Training Academy and has been designated as a regional provider for advanced training in Northeast Ohio. Full-time and part-time classes begin Aug. 21. The last day to apply is Wednesday, July 5. For more information, visit www.kent.edu/policeacademy.
For more information about the Warren Family Mission, visit warrenfamilymission.org.
(Pictured, left-right) Byrce Carlin, Gyasi Warsin, Trevor Hovanec, Mayor William “Doug” Franklin, Sierra Werden, Grant Redeker, Nathaniel Kramer, and Jaden Szantay. (Not Pictured due to delivering meals) Isaiah Brazosky, Makenzie Butcherine, Simon Irwin, and Krista Ryel