SALISBURY – The Salisbury Police Department is continuing the community conversations program it began more than two years ago with another event this Thursday, Oct. 17.

The program, “Cultivating Community Conversations,” began in June of 2022 under former Police Chief Jerry Stokes and has been funded by ongoing grants from the Duke Energy Foundation. The annual grant of $25,000 is aimed at addressing “diversity and inclusion for law enforcement and community to enhance cultural responsiveness.” The local police take advantage of the opportunity to meet with residents from around the community in an informal setting to discuss relevant topics, for officers to share information, and for people to get to know officers throughout the department.

When the program first began, Stokes said the initial goal was to begin to rebuild the relationship between the community and police that lost a bit of ground during COVID. Since then, the meetings have highlighted a variety of concerns from across the community, with different neighborhoods often having different questions and needs.

This week’s event, held in partnership with Rufty-Holmes Senior Center, is focusing on engaging older adult populations, and will take place Thursday at 11:30 a.m. at City Park, 316 Lake Dr. Lunch will be provided.

“Cultivating Community Conversations has been an essential tool for us in fostering open communication between law enforcement and the community,” said Salisbury Police Chief Patrick “PJ” Smith. “These discussions create an honest space for us to listen and learn from our neighbors, which helps us serve them better. Engaging with specific groups, like seniors, is crucial in addressing concerns and building trust across our city.”

Heather Kincel, director of the Rufty-Holmes Senior Center, highlighted the importance of focusing on older adults.

“We’re excited to partner with the Salisbury Police Department to ensure our senior community has a voice in these discussions,” Kincel said. “Older adults often face unique challenges, and this is a valuable opportunity for them to share their concerns directly with law enforcement, fostering a safer, more inclusive environment for all.”

The annual grant is part of Duke Energy Foundation $1 million annual commitment to social justice and racial equity in North Carolina. SPD is one of 40 organizations across the state to receive the grant this year.

Additional conversations with other community groups are being planned throughout the remainder of 2024.