Triad 101 By: Major Chris Matson Forest Park Police Department cmatson@forestparkpd.com David Fenton Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office, MA dfenton1422@hotmail.com

What is “Triad” Triad is not an acronym, it is a symbol of unity between local police, the sheriff, and the American Association of Retired Persons (A.A.R.P.)

Triad is also……. ……. a program of philosophy which focuses on reducing criminal victimization of older Americans, and the enhancement of the delivery of law enforcement services to these individuals.

WHY ? Major polls indicate that crime and the fear of crime impact severely on older Americans. A growing population of older persons across the country create a challenging situation for law enforcement. We must identify and offer ways to deal effectively with the concerns of these citizens.

More …..WHY ? There is a natural aging of the population and an increase in demands on law enforcement agencies to meet the needs of older citizens. This makes it imperative for the country’s leading law enforcement agencies to devote special attention to the senior members of the community and their needs.

What are the goals of Triad ? Reduce senior victimization Enhance a sense of security among seniors through education, training and involvement. Improve the overall quality of life for seniors

Who can be involved in Triad ? Police Sheriff AARP Fire departments Community aging programs Recreation departments Court systems Local businesses Churches Hospitals Social services ANY BUSINESS OR PERSON CONCERNED WITH SENIOR ISSUES

Seniors And Law enforcement Together S.A.L.T. Council Seniors And Law enforcement Together

What is the S.A.L.T. Council ? It is the governing body of seniors and agency representatives that guides the entire Triad. They plan activities and programs to involve law enforcement and seniors in achieving the overall goals of the Triad.

How is Triad set up ? Triad Membership

Organizing a S.A.L.T. Council Gather a compatible group of law enforcement and business professionals along with mature leaders that will guide your Triad. Determine the number on the Council. Choose a motivated senior as chairperson. Develop a mission statement and formal guidelines. Determine primary focuses of YOUR Triad. ( survey ) Develop sub-committees for projects.

What are some typical activities of a Triad ? Educate seniors on: Safety issues Avoiding criminal victimization. Fraud and scams Elder abuse Law enforcement activities Legal system Social aspect / teamwork

Other activities……... Court Watch program Victim assistance Safe senior walks Law enforcement volunteers Neighborhood Watch involvement

Keys to success.

Benefits to POLICE. Build community relations. Extra sets of eyes to watch for crimes. Education of senior issues and concerns. Volunteers. …and the list goes on!

Part 2 Triad - PARTNERSHIPS The why, what, where and who’s of developing partnerships.

WHY PARTNERSHIPS? Teamwork provides more ideas. Vial of Life Program with Fire Department

WHY PARTNERSHIPS? Division of labor. Police agencies and the Recreation Department/Senior Center share meeting program responsibilities

Resources Through PARTNERSHIPS Locations Product People Money $$$ Influence

More Whys…………... Triad is generally thought of as the police building relations with seniors, but when partnerships are developed more relationships are created throughout the community.

More Whys…………... Businesses (mostly larger ones) have a desire to give to the community. Some even have people designated to community relations. All parties win when you involve the right people. Contact businesses when you have fundraisers. It is a prime opportunity to donate.

Who are our partners? City or county departments Fire Department Vial of Life Blood Pressure Screening Home Fire Safety Information Holiday Safety CERT Team

Who are our partners? City or county departments Recreation Department Meeting Location Program Support Special Events Transportation

Who are our partners? Mayor, Council / Commission, City Manager Financial Support Public Recognition Programs

Who are our partners? District Attorney, Solicitor General & Judges Program Support Court Watch Victim Assistance Program - Volunteer Opportunities

Who are our partners? State and Federal Government/Agencies Program Support Informational Materials Facility Tours/Visits County Jail State Capitol Building Georgia Public Safety Training Center Federal Reserve State and Federal Archives Homeland Security

Who are our partners? Police Personnel Triad Administration & Management Meeting and Program Support Friendly faces – the more you get to know them.

Who are our partners? City or county departments (Recreation, P.W.) Mayor, Council / Commission, City Manager. Fire Department Internal personnel (Administrative) District Attorney Solicitor Gen. Judges Senior Centers Meals on Wheels Schools State and Federal Law Enforcement.

Partnerships are the KEY to success! Doctors Pharmacists Utility Companies Printing Companies Grocery Stores Banks

Remember….. This list is NOT all inclusive!!!! The possibilities are endless. You can involve anyone, any company, or any organization who has something to contribute. Do not rule anyone out. People want to be part of a good thing. ALL you need to do most of the time is ask.

Now it is your turn. Who can you name?

Answer the following questions.. Quiz Time! Answer the following questions..

Ask yourself………………. Are you committed to your community ? Do you think your community could be more safe ? Do you want to feel more safe ( home, work, travel ) ? Do you want to learn more about law enforcement ? Do you believe in strength in numbers ?

If your answer is “YES”…... ………then do something about it!!!!! Create Join Become active Be part of a team where everyone wins. Forest Park, Morrow, Lake City, Clayton County, GEORGIA