Being an officer in the Rochester Police Department can often bring some heavy days. But if you happen to see them at the Thurston Road YMCA Neighborhood Center, know that those experiences are some of the more enjoyable parts of their days.
On the first Wednesday of each month, RPD officers visit the neighborhood center for the Workout with a Cop program. It’s much less about patrolling the community in the 19th Ward; it’s about developing a rapport with community members and finding ways to showcase healthy living.
“[We want to] connect with the community, build trust,” said Lt. Bing Reaves Jr. of the RPD’s Southwest Neighborhood Service Center. “And have that social networking. And to also make ourselves available for any questions or concerns that might be going on in your neighborhood.”
Reaves also said he wants himself and his RPD colleagues to be visible at Thurston Road to emphasize the importance of wellness, whether you’re a YMCA member or a police officer.
“We deal with a lot of tragedy. We see a lot of trauma in the community,” said Reaves. “That takes a toll on an officer. So, part of us being here at the YMCA is to help with that physical wellness portion.”
Officer James LaRuez was happy to see the connection between the neighborhood center and the RPD. Not only to help foster better relationships with community members, but also because it has become his “home” Y over the past year.
“It’s nice to come in here and see the community members,” said LaRuez. “People you see on the streets every day. You’ve been in their homes; you see them in passing. It’s nice to be able to just talk to them.”
LaRuez also noted how people might have preconceived notions because of his role. That’s why it’s important for him to invest in this partnership and why he believes the badges officers wear should represent the responsibility they have to protect and serve the community.
“They’re good people. This is the 19th Ward,” said LaRuez. “The 19th Ward has a fantastic community."
LaRuez shared that he has enjoyed participating in Group Exercise classes at the neighborhood center. One of LaRuez’s colleagues, Officer Kate Girard-Flanagan, has also enjoyed the classes at Thurston, specifically the Gentle Yoga class.
“It’s just amazing. It’s nice to be able to connect with people in a different way and under different circumstances,” said Girard-Flanagan. “Because, usually, we’re called out during someone’s emotional, horrible crisis in their life. And we don’t get to see them outside of that particular situation.”
