Criminal Justice and Legal Studies Club Raises Funds for Cops for Tots
Posted on: November 20, 2024
Tigerville, SC—North Greenville University’s (NGU) Criminal Justice and Legal Studies club will host its sixth annual Cops for Tots fundraiser at the Greer Police Department’s Physical Training Course this Saturday, Nov. 23, at 11 a.m.
Attendees who donate a new, unwrapped toy (or bring a $5 donation) will have the chance to run the Greer PD training course.
“The partnership our Criminal Justice and Legal Studies program has with the Greer Police Department is invaluable to our students and faculty,” said Joshua Styles, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Legal Studies at NGU. “Several of our graduates have worked or currently work for Greer PD, so partnering with them for a fundraiser like this is especially meaningful. This event is the perfect opportunity to learn more about how police officers are trained while also supporting GPD’s efforts to care for kids in the Greer community.”
The Greer Police Department began serving families in the Upstate through the Cops for Tots program in the late 1980s.
“Over the years, thousands of families have received gifts, clothing, and essentials, easing financial burdens during a typically busy and expensive season,” said NGU’s Director of Campus Safety and Security Jeff Smith, who formerly served with the Greer Police Department.
“Families often see officers not just as enforcers of the law but as compassionate, caring members of the community. The program certainly provides a great opportunity for community members and organizations to come together, bridging gaps between the community members,” Smith said.
The event is free to attend and those seeking more information can contact Josh Styles at joshua.styles@ngu.edu.
“NGU’s mission of servant leadership and fostering Christ-centered values makes involvement in efforts like Cops for Tots a natural fit,” Smith said. “Supporting vulnerable families exemplifies living out faith through action.”
