Its about Public Safety In the City of Lauderhill

LAUDERHILL, Fla. — The City of Lauderhill is expanding its community-centered public safety efforts through year-round programs designed to support youth, prevent crime, strengthen neighborhood relationships and improve quality of life.

The initiatives are led by the Lauderhill Police Department. They work with city departments, schools, businesses, and community groups. The initiatives focus on prevention, education, mentorship, and direct engagement with residents.

“Public safety and quality of life go hand in hand,” Mayor Denise D. Grant said.

“Our goal is to create a city where residents feel safe, supported and connected. Through these programs, we are investing in our youth, strengthening community relationships, promoting wellness and creating opportunities for residents to help build a stronger Lauderhill.”

City of Lauderhill’s Engagement Efforts

The city’s engagement efforts begin with youth programs such as the Parkway Middle School Mentorship Program, where police officers work with students throughout the school year to encourage academic achievement, positive decision-making and leadership.

Younger students participate in Safety Town, an interactive program that teaches personal safety, fire prevention, traffic awareness, stranger danger and other real-life safety lessons through hands-on activities led by police and fire personnel.

“Creating a safe and thriving community requires more than enforcement; it requires investment, engagement and partnership,” City Manager Kennie Hobbs Jr. said.

“These programs reflect the city’s commitment to supporting residents at every stage of life. By investing in youth development, community trust, public education and neighborhood engagement, we are helping build a stronger quality of life for everyone who lives, works and does business in Lauderhill.”

Youth Police Academy

During the summer, the department expands youth outreach through the Youth Police Academy, which gives participants ages 12 to 17 an inside look at law enforcement operations through interactive activities, leadership development and educational experiences. Older teens can explore public safety careers through the Police Explorer Program, which offers leadership training, mentorship, community service opportunities, scholarship resources and exposure to law enforcement professions.

Coffee with a Cop

Community engagement continues all year through programs like Coffee with a Cop. It gives residents and business owners a casual way to meet officers. They can discuss neighborhood concerns and learn about public safety resources. Residents can also join the Citizens Police Academy for a behind-the-scenes look at policing. They learn about strategies, specialized units, and community policing programs.

Slow Roll: Community Bicycle Ride

The city also supports wellness and stronger neighborhood connections through Slow Roll. Slow Roll is a community bike ride. It happens several times a year. The community bike ride brings residents and police officers together to explore Lauderhill neighborhoods. It also encourages fitness, wellness, and community awareness.

National Night Out

Family-friendly events like Halloween Safety Day and National Night Out bring families together. Police officers, firefighters, volunteers, and community partners join these events. They offer safety demonstrations, educational exhibits, games, and entertainment.  Best of all, these events also create positive interaction with public safety staff.

Shop with a Cop

During the holidays, the city supports local youth through Shop with a Cop and Secret Santa. Shop with a Cop, sponsored in partnership with Target Corp., pairs selected youth with officers for mentorship activities, breakfast and personalized shopping. The Secret Santa Program recognizes elementary school students who demonstrate citizenship, leadership, integrity and perseverance by providing bicycles and holiday gifts.

Community Policing

Police Chief Constance Stanley said the programs help strengthen trust, build relationships and improve quality of life throughout the community.

“Community policing is built on partnerships, communication and trust,” Stanley said.

“These programs help us connect with residents of all ages, support youth development, promote safety education and create meaningful opportunities for engagement. Together, we are building a safer, stronger Lauderhill.”

City officials said the programs are part of Lauderhill’s broader strategy to invest in public safety, youth empowerment, neighborhood engagement and community wellness.

Stay Connected

For more information about community programs and upcoming events, visit https://www.lauderhill-fl.gov/website or follow @cityoflauderhill on Instagram.