The Cops-N-Bobbers program, initiated in 2014 as a joint effort between the Stuart Police Department and the East Stuart Youth Initiative summer camp, has achieved remarkable success and shows potential for expansion. This program not only teaches children essential water safety skills like wearing a life jacket and navigating channel markers but also imparts knowledge about marine life. Kathleen Lannon, the Stuart Police youth crime prevention intervention specialist, emphasizes the importance of positive interactions between kids and police officers in building relationships.

Recognition and Awards

In September, Lannon received the William “Bill” Nealy Gang Prevention Award at the Florida Gang Investigators Association Conference for her work in the program. It also gained recognition from State Rep. John Snyder. This recognition highlights the significance and effectiveness of the Cops-N-Bobbers program.

Program Details

The Cops-N-Bobbers program is free, but children need to obtain a permission slip signed by a parent and bring their own lunch and drink when going on the boat. Officers Joe Hogan and retired Miami-Dade Officer Charley Sirois, who hold captain licenses, take the children out on the boat. Through this, kids get to know the officers on a personal level, not just as the men in the police uniform. If they encounter any issues, they feel comfortable approaching a police officer and following the “you see something, say something” motto.

Every week, the children eagerly ask their camp counselors to go out on the boat. However, they have to earn this privilege through positive behavior. For instance, there was a child who initially struggled but was motivated by the incentive of being able to go on the trip and pick his own friends. This special experience had a profound impact on him.

Currently, the program is mainly in summer. However, they are exploring the possibility of expanding it to days when children are not in school and collaborating with fishing camps. Although nothing has been finalized yet, they are actively considering different ideas to move forward.

Memorable Experiences

This past summer, they went out on the boat 17 times, taking a total of 60 children. One of the most memorable experiences was when they went to the sandbar and encountered a pod of manatees swimming by. The children were able to put on their masks and snorkels and swim side-by-side with these magnificent creatures. Lannon emphasized the importance of not touching the sea cows but simply enjoying the moment. This was a truly unique and unforgettable experience that not every day offers.

The children were in awe and thought it was the coolest thing. Such experiences help create lasting memories and a deeper connection with the marine environment.

For information about the program, including how to participate, contact the city of Stuart.