True Blue Buddies Police Mentorship Program

Students from Central Elementary were treated to a Thanksgiving Dinner True Blue Buddies style. Now in its fourth year, the family-oriented event hosted by the San Diego Unified Police Department brought a Thanksgiving feast to the students and their families. “It's important for us to let the kids know, and the families, that they can have a positive interaction with a police officer." says Officer William Corado.

The dinner is just one part of True Blue Buddies, a year-long mentorship program between kids and San Diego Unified Police officers. This year, the department paired 30 children from Central Elementary with its officers along with San Diego County Probation and SDPD officers and supported by the Integrated Youth Services Division and Family Engagement Team.

“We’re here to promote positive interactions between kids and police officers,” says Sergeant Ivan Picazo. “Our officers check in with their buddy, have lunch with them, and give them encouragement in school.” Integrated Youth Services Division knows the importance of promoting positive and caring relationships between adults and students.