The Police-Community/Youth Dialogues Program is a 3.5 – 5 hour, facilitated conversation between members of the community, their youth and law enforcement officers.  Dialogues are held with groups of 10-12 community members and an equal number of law enforcement officers. Participants first meet separately with their peer groups, then come together in a sharing circle. There are games, shared meals between youth and officers, role plays and meaningful discussions, led by trained law enforcement and civilian facilitators.

During the process, officers and community members share from their personal experiences, to address stereotypes, biases and misperceptions, while facing issues and concerns that impact their daily lives. Through direct dialogue and dynamic interactions, layers of prejudice, stereotypes, bias, fear and mistrust are dismantled to help groups find common ground and building trust.

To address the need for finding common ground and building trust with your community, click here to download your toolkit to guide you through the Police-Community/Youth Dialogues Program for your city or department.