BUENA VISTA TOWNSHIP, MI (WNEM) -
Parishioners on Patrol received a $50,000 grant to partner with Buena Vista Township and local police. The group will spread its anti-violence message to students of all ages.
Buena Vista Township police officers will work with state troopers to reach kids and teens.
Law enforcement will use a program called teaching, educating and mentoring, or TEAM.
Buena Vista police officer Jose Douglas said it's an opportunity for students to see police in a different light.
"Most times, the youth only see police officers when something bad happens; now they get to see police officers on a more personal basis, actually talking to them and mentoring them," said Douglas.
Parishioners on Patrol leader Pastor Larry Camel believes the program could help reach at-risk teens and ultimately reduce violence.
The program is expected to start in November.
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