Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara says while the officers are proactive in building a connection on the surface, his office looks to work with kids to build a successful future for the forest city.

“We as an entire community wrap our arms around our young people to encourage them, mentor them, and assisted them in bettering themselves in education,” McNamara said.

McNamara says trauma and crime go hand in hand for many young offenders.

“We know that these young people who have pain inside show it outside specifically the young men. That’s why initiatives like Camp HOPE in the city of Rockford are so important,” McNamara said.

 

Click here to read the full article by Brittany Karlin from WIFR.