As part of the National Faith & Blue weekend from October 11th to 14th, 2024, the Illinois State Police (ISP) are collaborating with faith-based groups for community-strengthening events. These collaborative efforts aim to foster stronger bonds between law enforcement and communities through activities like blood drives, food bank support, prescription drug take-backs, and family-friendly events like trunk or treat. ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly emphasizes that these initiatives, built on mutual respect and understanding, are essential for thriving neighborhoods. Residents are encouraged to participate and engage with local law enforcement and faith leaders. To learn more about event locations and details, visit the Faith & Blue events website.
Faith & Blue is a nationwide initiative formed to create safer, stronger, and more just communities by building partnerships between law enforcement and faith-based organizations. The overall goal of the initiative is to reinforce police-community relations through various community activities hosted by faith-based organizations and law enforcement agencies.
“This initiative is based on the idea that strong communities are built on mutual respect, trust, and understanding between law enforcement and the people they serve,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “Faith-based organizations are a key pillar in many local communities, and when they work together with law enforcement, neighborhoods thrive.”
Faith & Blue community events include blood drives, replenishing food banks and collecting other needed items, prescription drug take-backs, and trunk or treat, to name a few. Activities vary by location with many offering games, food, and safety education. The Illinois State Police are hosting ‘Catch with a Cop’ at ROWVA High School on October 11th, from 6 to 8 PM. “The ROWVA High School Fellowship of Christian Athletes will be participating with the Illinois State Police and Knox County Sheriff’s Department to host a meet and greet with officers. The event will take place during the High School Football game. Citizens will have a chance to speak with officers and pass the football around while enjoying the football game.”
On October 13th in Macomb, the Illinois State Police Department & Victory Baptist Church are hosting a food drive from 4 to 7 PM. They are collecting Canned Food and Non-Perishable foods. Visit the events link at the top of the page for more locations throughout Illinois.
