The Park Forest Police Department prioritizes community engagement by hosting various events and participating in fundraisers.

This Friday, officers from the Park Forest Police Department will take part in the annual "Cop on a Rooftop" fundraising event at Dunkin' Donuts, located at 431 W. 14th St., in Chicago Heights. Chief Brian Rzyski highlighted the department's commitment to immersing itself in the community.

"Our officers strive to participate in everything," Rzyski said. "Over the years, we've participated in events like the annual Polar Plunge, Torch Run, and "Cop on the Rooftop" to raise money for Special Olympics Illinois."

For nearly 30 years, these two events have supported thousands of athletes through Special Olympics Illinois, offering opportunities for year-round sports competitions and training, health and wellness initiatives, and leadership development. Rzyski noted that law enforcement agencies across the state raise millions of dollars for this cause each year.

The Park Forest Police Department is launching its second fundraising campaign of the year. Last year, the department raised $3,000 for the Cop on the Roof Top event. Additionally, they collected about $6,000 for the Polar Plunge and received $1,500 from various donations throughout the year, including t-shirt sales. In total, the department's fundraising efforts last year exceeded $10,000.

In Park Forest, Rzyski stated that it's essential for the police department to connect with the community. 

"Just last week or so, we hosted a youth violence prevention giveaway at Somonauk Park, providing resources and toys for the youth in Park Forest," Rzyski said. "In the coming months, we'll be involved in community events like Residents Appreciation Day and Unity Day, in conjunction with Main Street Nights."

Additionally, the Park Forest Police Department has established the Problem-Oriented Policing (POP) program as another way to engage with residents. This program assigns specific officers to particular neighborhoods to address quality-of-life issues. These officers act as liaisons between residents and the police department, assisting with concerns that don't require immediate police intervention.

"Ultimately, our goal is to ensure our officers develop relationships with not only our residents but all community members," Rzyski stated. "Whether through events like our pop-ups or various programs, we want the community to know that we are here."

Rzyski invited anyone interested in meeting Park Forest Police officers and supporting a good cause to join them at Dunkin' Donuts this Friday from 5 a.m. to noon. Donors will receive a coupon for a free donut, and those who donate at least $10 will receive a coupon for a free coffee and travel mug while supplies last.