Welcome to the Community Relations and Engagement Program.
Founded in 2018, the work of this committee is focused on promoting Ohio’s finest and providing support to agencies. In 2019, the Sharing Ohio’s Best program was launched. This program provides an opportunity for a different agency to be recognized each month for their community policing strategies. Through the collaboration of the Law Enforcement Foundation, the OACP Executive Board and member agencies, this program has been successful in being a platform to showcase all of the good work that is done every day by our trained professionals.
Our committee was formed on the premise that law enforcement agencies face numerous challenges. Some seem insurmountable if not for partnerships. This committee’s focus remains on helping agencies continue to provide outstanding community policing philosophies and action.
During the challenging times of Covid and national unrest in 2020, agencies were faced with incredibly difficult obstacles. Public scrutiny seemed to be at an all-time high. In the background was this committee’s work to remain steadfast in our approach to help others succeed and share our appreciation for the hard work being done to protect our communities. That is when our Sharing Ohio’s Best program really helped some agencies refocus on how to better promote their programs so that more knew of their talents.
In the years since this committee started, a lot of work has been put towards creating more opportunities to engage youth. With pride, we launched our first Teen Summit in 2023. This brought Central Ohio teens together at the Ohio State Highway Patrol Academy where they were greeted by numerous Central Ohio and state law enforcement agencies. It was a huge success! We have continued to host the Teen Summit annually and plans are to replicate the event around the state.
We encourage your participation. We value your input and ask that you pass along your suggestions to your District Representative and consider being a part of the Community Relations and Engagement Committee.
Click HERE for District Representative contact information.
Community Relations and Engagement Program Resource:
Resource Videos (OACP Members Only Site)
Mission Statement:
The Community Relations and Engagement Committee promotes effective community policing across Ohio’s law enforcement agencies. We explore innovative strategies to strengthen partnerships and ensure peace and safety where Ohioans live, work, and play.
Vision Statement:
Our committee supports agencies in building upon their successes. Through unwavering dedication, Ohio’s law enforcement agencies foster safety and trust within their communities. By celebrating excellence, we ensure Ohio remains a national leader in professional policing.
History of the Committee:
In 2018, the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police established the Community Relations and Engagement Committee, appointing Past President Chief Brandon Standley, Ret’d, as its inaugural Chair. With statewide representation, the committee was created to address the vital need to share the creative and positive impact of law enforcement. The committee has launched initiatives like the Sharing Ohio’s Best program to shine a light on the dedication of Ohio’s officers and the Teen Summit as an opportunity for teens, law enforcement, and community leaders will gather to listen, learn, and collaborate.