In New York, University Heights High School students participated in two story exchanges with police officers from the 40th precinct in the Bronx. N4 advisor and University Heights teacher Lisa Greenbaum noted, “Even after the exchanges, they were able to enjoy each other’s company and eat lunch together. One of the officers commented that part of doing her job is getting up every day and trying to overcome the stigma that is placed on all police officers. An event like this lets her spend time with young people and get to know more about them than what she experiences on the street.”
And just this week, Seton Hill University began the initial phase of their Community Collaborations Initiative by participating in a story exchange and sharing a meal with campus police officers, staff and faculty. Community members came in early before night shifts, stayed late into the evening after working long days, and parted ways with a better understanding of the rich stories that fill their campus paths.
This is only the beginning and we invite you to contact us if you would like to engage community members and turn empathy into action in your neck of the woods!
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