Chautauqua Striders recently partnered with Jamestown High School, the United Way of Southern Chautauqua County, the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Department and the Chautauqua County Executive's Office for a presentation to promote early awareness of higher education and local career opportunities, specifically in law enforcement, as a tool towards population retention and workforce development. Speakers included Chautauqua County Sheriff Jim Quattone, Deputy Jacis Blake, Sheriff's Academy Director Raechel Waid, Fredonia Police Officer April Echevarria, UPMC Chautauqua Security Officer James Rensel and moderator Solimar Vazquez, Secretary to Chautauqua County Executive.
Chautauqua Striders Mentoring Coordinator Elimelec Perez said, "We decided to bring in law enforcement as our first panel as some in the Latino community have expressed a disconnected feeling with law enforcement. We are hoping that not only will the panel spur an idea to help students create their future plans, but also help to build positive relationships with law enforcement in our community."
Students had the opportunity to ask the panel questions career-related questions, as well as questions to understand the panelists' views on racism, social justice and accountability. Over 40 students signed up through Chautauqua Striders High School Mentoring program.
Pictured, from left to right: Director of Mentoring and Advocacy Erika Muecke; Fredonia Police Officer April Echevarria; Sergeant Rachael Waid; Training Director and Mentoring Coordinator Eimelec Perez; Chautauqua County Sheriff's Deputy Jacis Blake; Chautauqua County Sheriff Jim Quattrone; Solimar Vazquez, Secretary to Chautauqua County Executive; UPMC Chautauqua Security Officer James Rensel; Marketing & Resource Development Manager Nicole Gustafson. Photos by Jamestown Public Schools
