Minneapolis is launching a new Public Safety initiative with the graduation of the first class of 13 men from the community safety specialist program. This program, a partnership between the Northside residents Redevelopment Council, Next Global Security, and the SEIU Local 26 labor union, was inspired by the national conversation surrounding the murder of George Floyd. The program aims to provide alternatives to traditional law enforcement and address the needs of the community. Residents expressed a need for a more comfortable and familiar presence when reporting domestic issues or seeking advocacy for troubled children.
The program serves the Willard Hay and near North neighborhoods, with the graduates being locals themselves. They are certified by the state and have undergone a rigorous training course, including obtaining licenses as emergency medical and mental health first responders. The graduates are deeply connected to their communities and can respond quickly when needed, as they live in the same neighborhood.
One of the graduates, Troy Bowman, who was born and raised in North Minneapolis, eagerly joined the program to contribute to improving safety and shifting the direction of the area. The graduates will also have access to various support services, such as first-time homebuyer support, credit counseling, and trauma-informed support. Overall, this initiative aims to enhance public safety while creating career opportunities for those interested in violence prevention.
The residents of Minneapolis can now rely on these community safety specialists who are dedicated to their well-being..
