‘Bridging the Gap’: Partnership Announced Between Rochester PD and The Rochester Urban League

On August 14th, members of the Rochester Police Department joined officials of the Urban League of Rochester to announce a historic partnership.

The Urban League of Rochester NY has donated office space for the RPD at its headquarters on North Clinton Avenue in the city. It will be used by the police department to help foster regular conversation and give the opportunity for officers to work side-by-side with the agency’s staff and clients.

For 60 years, the agency has served as a pioneer of civil rights in Rochester. A few years ago, RPD Deputy Chief Keith Stith contacted Urban League’s President and CEO, Dr. Seanelle Hawkins, to brainstorm ways to better align the agencies.

“We are excited. This is so much more than shared space. This is a commitment to our community’s future. It’s an opportunity to take what was once tension to solution and hope, and that is what we hope to bring,” said Dr. Hawkins.