R.O.K. program seeks youth volunteers to paint

By Julia Wolf

The Rocks, Officers and Kids (R.O.K.) program is back in business, running Memorial Day through Labor Day, but the Cornell Police Department is looking for help from older youth, to help make the program a success.

Residents of the Cornell School District who have finished grades six through 11, are invited to bring their creative rock painting ideas to life Wednesday, June 1, from 9:30-11 a.m., at the Cornell Police Department.

The painted rocks are hidden in public areas all over the city, by Cornell police officers, for kids to find. When a youth finds a rock, they can bring it to the police station and exchange it for a small prize. The purpose of the program is to build a trusted relationship between children and the department.

“Our Rocks, Officers and Kids program is a great way to help kids stay active in the summer,” said Glenn Rehberg, Cornell police chief.

Rehberg says the R.O.K. program, started by a former offi cer, was well-received by the youngsters.

“So, this rock painting event is all about trying to replace some of the rocks that didn’t make it back to the police department last year,” said Rehberg.

Rehberg says they would like to replace those rocks, so there are more opportunities for kids to find the rocks.

During the event, they youth are invited to create their own designs on the rocks. All supplies will be provided.

“Something colorful, and bright and fun,” said Rehberg. He says it is also a chance for the older kids to share something with the community and help keep the R.O.K. program running smoothly.

Youth must have a signed permission form in order to participate in the painting event. The form is available at tinyurl.com/mk4pe6es, with registration available at eventbrite. com/e/rok-painting-tickets-328181478637. More information is also available on the Cornell Police Department Facebook page.