Community Trading Card Program Connects Kids with Police

In a recent government meeting, community leaders announced the launch of a new trading card program aimed at fostering connections between local youth and law enforcement. The initiative, spearheaded by the Summit Police Department in collaboration with the Summit Elks Lodge, celebrates the 20th anniversary of the police department's trading card tradition.

Mayor Elizabeth Fagan's trading card will be a highlight of the collection, which features biographies of police officers and information about local organizations. The program is set to run until June 2025, culminating in a raffle for children who collect a certain number of cards. Winners will be announced during the National Night Out event in August 2025.

Fred Wolf, a representative from the Elks Lodge, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and support for first responders. He noted the positive impact of police presence in schools, particularly highlighting Officer Cotega's role in fostering enthusiasm among students.

The trading card initiative aims to enhance community relations and provide a fun, educational way for children to interact with local law enforcement. The program will feature regular updates on the cards and their respective officers, further promoting engagement within the community.