Training to Serve

A comment made by a Sarasota Police officer during an off-duty detail at Resurrection House sparked an action. The officer said when she went through the training program as a recruit, she was immediately assigned to the night shift. It was a couple years later that she became aware of Resurrection House and how much interaction between the two organizations benefits everyone involved.

SPD officers working their daily shift often encounter homeless individuals. If the need is for clothing, food, or a shower, the officer knows Resurrection House stands ready to help them improve the situation. The reverse is also true. Having an SPD officer work an off-duty detail at Resurrection House provides safety and security for the volunteers, staff and clients. It is also an opportunity for interaction with an officer in a non-threatening environment.

Individuals wanting to join the police force attend a six-month long Police Academy through an FDLE-certified State Academy. Upon graduation and being hired by the Sarasota Police Department, the recruits are put through a 10-11 week long Agency Specific Training. It is at this point in their training that they visit Resurrection House for the first time.

Training programs in the future will include a stop at Resurrection House. The bond between the Sarasota Police Department and Resurrection House is very strong and is especially beneficial to both sides meeting the needs of the homeless in our community.