Cops4Kids Day

The first annual Cops4Kids day brought Charlottesville police officers and downtown neighborhood kids to Venable field on June 13, 2009, for conversation, face-painting, demonstrations, exhibits, a picnic, and raffle prizes. 

Older children armed with clipboards interviewed police officers to learn about their favorite books and music, their hobbies, and their role models. 

The event was sponsored by the Charlottesville Police Department Foundation and Big Brothers Big Sisters, with help from the Hope Foundation and private donors. 

CPF board member Greg Fairchild described the Cops4Kids experience: "Children were able to learn about the truly "wow" elements of police work, either through visits to the engaging demonstrations, strolling the booths, or actually interviewing officers.  The connections between our force and community members were visible everywhere. I observed the strong personal rapport between officers and residents who came to the event. It was clear they’ve been engaged in a sustained and powerful dialogue with this neighborhood for some time, and it’s the type of thing that can’t help but warm your heart.”