IMPD reflects on community engagement INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department’s Community Engagement and Outreach Bureau (CEOB) spent 2025 focusing on building relationships with young people and families across the city. Through school visits, mentorship pro grams, summer camps, and sports activities, officers worked to build trust with kids who police leaders say are most at risk of falling into crime. “It may prevent violence from happening, being able to stay connect with our young people and give them other resources or outlets,” said IMPD Maj. Corey Mims. That approach was on full display at the inaugural CEOB Community Day Jamboree this year, which brought more than 1,500 people together with officers for food, games, and conversation. Programs like Teen Academy and Indy Pal give young people hands-on exposure to leadership, accountability, and conflict resolution, tools police say help stop violence before it happens. “It’s just the start and the beginning. You might have one or two conversations, but that’s just the foundation,” Mims said. Overall, the Bureau connected with over 15,200 young people this year. As Mims sees it, building those connections early and showing kids they care is key. “So, they see a name and a face, not just a badge,” Mims said. “It kind of humanizes the badge for our young people, seeing us early in spaces where they feel comfortable, where they feel safe to voice their concerns, whether that be a school, community events, and so on and so forth.” Mims said some of those concerns that are voiced include wanting more consistent communication between the youth and police, and not just showing up when there’s a crisis. Another concern is having safe outlets. “Just having a space to kind of be kids. That’s all they want. So, being part of that conversation with them, trying to think of creative ways to provide them the space, and connect them with different organizations around Indianapolis. There’s so many things to do around Indianapolis. There’s so many youth organizations that are doing great work,” Mims said. Continuing to deepen relationships with families and community partners will remain a priority going into 2026. “Our community engagement outreach officers are in schools throughout Indianapolis currently now engaging with our young people, but exploring how to engage more kids, expand our reach. That’s what I look forward too,” Mims said. Mims said the Bureau’s Indy Pal program, which includes sports activities like soccer and baseball, is around the corner, and they’re looking for coaches to help connect with the youth for the programs. ...read more read less