Healing the relationships between police and the communities they serve is one of the most pressing social issues of our time. Often, the approaches employed to bring about change are grounded in a divisive narrative that frames the issue as police vs. community. We believe this narrative fosters an “us vs. them” rhetoric which is ineffective and harmful to both police officers and marginalized communities alike.
We believe a different pathway is possible; one where police officers and community members work together to achieve shared goals. Those who live and serve in a given community know what the greatest needs are and are best suited to bring about lasting change. By creating spaces that allow trust, understanding, and respect to grow, we facilitate the development of authentic relationships that enable police and the community to work together toward a common goal.
The answer to a better tomorrow lies within each of us. The challenge is for us to have faith that a new pathway is possible, and to find the courage to come together to make it happen.
We envision a future where police and citizens work together as one community to address
root causes of crime and promote safety so everyone thrives.
Objective 1: 25% of departments throughout South Carolina are engaged in our programming.
Objective 2: 90% of participating departments have set specific goals and implementation plans related to community policing
Objective 3: 80% of participating departments are tracking progress
Objective 4: 25% of participating departments have met or exceeded identified goals and 75% are making progress towards goals
Objective 5: At least 50% of participating departments have demonstrated progress on utilization of community policing
Objective 1: All Compass sites have developed implementation plans and clear measurable goals
Objective 2: All Compass sites are tracking progress quarterly
Objective 3: All sites have established a leadership council engaging at least 5-7 police and community partners and meet at least quarterly
Objective 4: Leadership council members report progress or a high rating on at least 80% of collaborative capacity components
Objective 5: Partners have worked together to complete at least five collaborative, community-driven projects that demonstrate measurable impact on outcomes related to safety
— KASSY ALIA RAY, Founder