During the summer of 2017 The Pottsville Bureau of Police is partnering with Big Brothers/Big Sisters (BBBS) of Schuylkill County to reintroduce a program called “BIGS IN BLUE.”
Approximately twenty boys and girls currently without a permanent “big” from the BBBS program will participate with at least thirteen different Pottsville Bureau of Police officers -ranging from the chief through the newest officers- in various activities designed to build teamwork, trust and accountability in the children while fostering a strong relationship between the officers and the youth.
Approximately twenty boys and girls currently without a permanent “big” from the BBBS program will participate with at least thirteen different Pottsville Bureau of Police officers -ranging from the chief through the newest officers- in various activities designed to build teamwork, trust and accountability in the children while fostering a strong relationship between the officers and the youth.
“The Pottsville Bureau of Police is very cognizant of our oath to not only protect but also serve our community. This cooperative endeavor with BBBS is an absolutely fantastic opportunity to do so in a manner that is beneficial in so many different ways. All the involved officers have volunteered to be involved during their personal off-duty time and this strongly signifies the understanding we have as an organization of the importance of being involved with our community not only on a professional level, but on a personal level as well.”
Chief Richard F. Wojciechowsky says that in 1994 he participated as a patrolman in a similar program under the direction of Chief Dale Repp and BBBS Director Vince Kulbitsky.
Chief Richard F. Wojciechowsky says that in 1994 he participated as a patrolman in a similar program under the direction of Chief Dale Repp and BBBS Director Vince Kulbitsky.
During the fall of 2016 he reached out to Doug Allen, the BBBS Schuylkill County Executive Director and also a personal friend, and they immediately agreed that this was a program worth pursuing for both of their agencies.
Mayor James T. Muldowney quickly pledged his full support and a schedule was created that allowed for challenging and exciting experiences for the kids.
The program kicked off Friday, June 16th with a Lehigh Valley River rafting experience and concludes in August with tours of local first responder facilities and a picnic.
Also included during that time frame will be events involving indoor rock-climbing, hiking, team challenge camp, and a Reading Phillies trip.
Tax deductible donations are being accepted to cover the costs of the programs and can be facilitated by contacting Doug Allen at bbbs.doug@verizon.net or by calling BBBS at 570-622-0174.
Tax deductible donations are being accepted to cover the costs of the programs and can be facilitated by contacting Doug Allen at bbbs.doug@verizon.net or by calling BBBS at 570-622-0174.