The Salisbury Police Department (SPD) will continue its series of in-person conversations with the Salisbury community, this time in partnership with Rufty-Holmes Senior Center, focusing on engaging older adult populations.

The next event in the Cultivating Community Conversations series will take place Thursday, Oct. 17, at 11:30 a.m. at City Park, 316 Lake Dr. Lunch will be provided.

“Cultivating Community Conversations has been an essential tool for us in fostering open communication between law enforcement and the community,” said Salisbury Police Chief Patrick “PJ” Smith. “These discussions create an honest space for us to listen and learn from our neighbors, which helps us serve them better. Engaging with specific groups, like seniors, is crucial in addressing concerns and building trust across our city.”

Heather Kincel, Director of the Rufty-Holmes Senior Center, highlighted the importance of focusing on older adults. “We’re excited to partner with the Salisbury Police Department to ensure our senior community has a voice in these discussions,” Kincel said. “Older adults often face unique challenges, and this is a valuable opportunity for them to share their concerns directly with law enforcement, fostering a safer, more inclusive environment for all.”

The conversation series is made possible through a $25,000 grant from the Duke Energy Foundation, which also supported the initiative in 2021 as part of the Foundation’s $1 million annual commitment to social justice and racial equity in North Carolina. SPD is one of 40 organizations across the state to receive the grant this year.

Additional conversations with other community groups are being planned throughout the remainder of 2024.