MOUNT VERNON – By connecting to the community through its Police and Kids United program and hiring a community advocate, the Mount Vernon Police Department earned the Community Impact Award from Law Publications.

“We are honored by this recognition as we continue to strengthen our connections with community partners and work together with our citizens to build the best community possible,” Chief of Police Robert K. Morgan said in a release.

The police department created PAK-United to keep Jeremiah Armstrong, its School Resources officer, connected with the city’s youth. He organized events such as kickball, fishing and dodgeball during the summer. Its success enabled continuation of the program during the school year.

“This program, along with the creation of a Community Advocacy Resource Director (CARD) position within the department to focus on citizen and officer well-being, demonstrates the department’s dedication to finding creative solutions that deliver real impacts,” Law Publications said.

Dan Jackman was hired as the city’s first community advocate, Morgan told City Council at its Nov. 8 meeting. In that role, he works with officers on calls that may benefit from having a licensed social worker on scene. He has been working with mental health and other community assistance organizations to ensure needed referrals are made in police calls where it is appropriate.

Those who want to participate in or sponsor PAK-United events or want to learn more about the community advocate program can contact the police department at 740-393-9530.