The Stuart Police Department wrapped up their summer youth programs and they were described as a success. 

Sergeant Katie Guisinger says that they had an average of 48 kids each of the four programs  in the month of June that were held at the Stuart American Legion, Springbrook State Park along with the Blank Park Zoo. She says the goal of these programs was to connect with the community. 

“A lot of them knew me, but this gave us the opportunity, you know, we weren’t in a classroom, I’m not in a uniform and were not talking about policing or school stuff we were just having a positive interaction to do these fun activities and that helps bridge the gap between community and law enforcement.”

Guisinger describes what the kids loved most about the programs. 

“They really enjoyed those trips where we were leaving the town. So those are the kinds of things that, like I said, are for next year to expand and enhance. Let’s see, maybe we can do some more kinds of activities where we’re kind of exploring what the surrounding areas have to offer. So some of the kids have never been to the zoo. You know, they really enjoyed that. Some of the kids had never been to the Springbrook State Park.”

Guisinger thanked every chapone and volunteer that helped at every program along with everyone that donated to make the events happen.