BLOOMINGTON, Ill (WMBD) — Some Bloomington residents enjoyed a tasty treat early Monday afternoon, courtesy of the police.
From 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Gene’s Dairy Delight on 1019 South Main Street. The Bloomington Police Department and Illinois State University police bought residents a scoop of their favorite custard.
Families, kids and adults of all ages came out to show support and grow a stronger relationship with both departments’ community engagement units.
Sgt. Mike Gardner with Illinois State University police collaborates with B.P.D.’s community engagement unit. Gardner said that events like this are one of the main priorities of both police departments.
“It actually is one of our main priorities, because we hope to not only just serve and protect, but also to let the community know that we are here together and we’re all one community and not separate,” he said. “So that, you know, when we show up to these events, people can feel comfortable, we can feel comfortable and just continue to build on trust and relationships.”
Buying Ice cream for the residents is not the only thing the BPD does to maintain good relations with the residents and students.
Gardner said both departments try to engage with the community as often as possible. Going to and setting up engagement events is something Gardner takes pride in.
“Several times a week, particularly if you count on campus and the group and the student groups that we engage with there,” he said. “So, it’s hard to really put a number on it without looking on the calendar. But we try to get out as much as we can because that’s our purpose.”
Click here to learn more about the Bloomington Police Department and ISU Police community engagement teams and their upcoming events.
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