Hoops for Harmony: Bridging the Gap Between Police and Youth

In a gymnasium filled with the rhythmic squeaks of sneakers and the laughter of youthful exuberance, a unique event unfolded, where Denver police officers and local youth came together to engage in a shared passion – basketball. The Hoops 4 Safety event, an annual collaboration between the Metropolitan State University of Denver's basketball teams, the Denver Police Department, and the Gold Crown Foundation, provided a platform for these two groups to connect, break down barriers, and foster understanding.

Fostering Positive Interactions and Building Trust

Mingling with a Purpose

The event was not about the officers showcasing their skills or taking center stage. As Deputy Chief Joe Montoya of the Denver Police Department explained, the goal was to "mingle" and let the kids take the spotlight. The officers' presence was a deliberate attempt to engage with the youth in a positive setting, creating opportunities for meaningful interactions and building trust.

Shared Experiences and Perspectives

For Officer Mike Borquez, a 26-year veteran of the Denver Police Department, the event held a personal significance. As a Denver native himself, he had once been one of the kids attending the very same camps and programs. This shared experience allowed him to connect with the participants on a deeper level, understanding their perspectives and aspirations.

Empowering the Youth

The event's focus was not on the officers' skills, but on empowering the young participants. The MSU Denver basketball players and coaches led the drills and scrimmages, allowing the kids to take the lead and showcase their talents. This approach fostered a sense of ownership and pride among the participants, who felt empowered to collaborate and work as a team.

Breaking Down Barriers

The event provided a unique opportunity for the kids to interact with the police officers in a relaxed and fun environment, shattering preconceptions and building bridges. As 16-year-old Jordan Sanchez observed, "I think it was just them showing that they're the good guys sometimes and showing that not all of them are bad."

Positive Perspectives and Aspirations

The event also allowed the officers to share their experiences and answer questions from the kids, providing a glimpse into their roles and responsibilities. This open dialogue helped to dispel misconceptions and fostered a more positive perspective on law enforcement among the participants.

A Mutual Benefit

The event was not just about the kids benefiting from the experience; the officers also found it to be a valuable release from their everyday duties. As Bill Hanzlik, the CEO and Co-Founder of the Gold Crown Foundation, noted, "They're under a lot of stress every day out on the street. They're all having fun. So, it's a great kind of release for them and it's neat to see them really be involved and care."

Lasting Impressions and Continued Engagement

The event's impact extended beyond the day's activities, as the MSU Denver basketball players hoped to inspire the young participants and maintain connections with them. As Ashlyn Yow, a junior point guard, shared, "Sometimes you'll find a kid that kind of gets attached to you or really is drawn to you and that's my favorite part about the [clinic]. Sometimes you'll see kids back from previous years or sometimes we work at Gold Crown and see kids there. So, it's just a great way for us to interact with the kids. And when we see them later on, they'll know our faces."The Hoops 4 Safety event exemplified the power of sports to bridge divides, foster understanding, and create lasting connections between law enforcement and the community they serve. By providing a platform for positive interactions and shared experiences, this annual event has the potential to shape the perceptions and aspirations of the next generation, ultimately contributing to a more harmonious and inclusive society.