News Releases

MPD hosts Summer Cool Down

Jun 5th, 2019

Cooling down crime is a goal of the Mobile Police Department this summer. Its “Summer Cool Down” program will be held at the Harmon Recreation Center, 1611 Belfast Street, which is located in the First Precinct. This area was selected due to the need for youth to see a positive police presence, as the precinct strives to build relationships and trust between police and community. The eight-week summer program kicks off Thursday, June 6 at 2 p.m.

Organized by the Mobile Police Department Office of the Strategic Initiatives, officers will be placed at the Harmon Recreation Center where they will serve as mentors. Educational activities planned are designed for kids of all ages, with fun events to allow officers to engage with them more.

The Gang Resistance Education and Training (G.R.E.A.T.) program will give elementary-aged children the knowledge of how to identify gang activity as well as bullying. The officers will also teach the kids how to make good decisions and control their anger.

For the middle and high school age group, Project A.I.M. will raise the discussion about goal setting. The kids will be introduced to various trade school program options and be given a resume writing class.

Jiu-jitsu classes will be offered centered on teaching discipline and self-control and increasing awareness and self-confidence. Throughout the “Summer Cool Down” program there will be special field trips and guest speakers.

During the kick-off celebration on Thursday, Chief Battiste and First Precinct Captain Melvin Jones will speak and welcome the participants followed by a basketball game played by officers and the community youth.

All kids who live in the First Precinct area are encouraged to participate. "Summer Cool Down" will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays in June and July from 9 to 11 a.m. (except the week of Fourth of July holiday). Wednesdays are designated for guest speakers and field trips. The program ends on Aug. 1. For more information, call the Office of Strategic Initiatives at 251-208-6384.