Nonprofit’s Unique Approach to Building Police-Community Relationships Will Play Out in Pasadena in Early August

A nonprofit organization is set to host a community event in Pasadena, bringing together local residents and law enforcement officials for a focused dialogue.

Nonprofit Game Changer focuses on improving relationships between law enforcement and community members.

The organization’s unique approach involves hosting these focus groups before sporting events or concerts, allowing participants to then attend the event together. This strategy aims to foster human bonding and help participants see each other in a more relatable light.

“Redesigning Perceptions — Community Conversations with Law Enforcement” is scheduled for August 8 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., will take place in the Flex Lecture Space, Room 230, at ArtCenter College of Design’s South Campus.

Game Changer’s moderated focus groups explore dufferent aspects of community-police interactions, including mental health, respect, misconceptions, trust, and communication.

Additional topics cover use of force, training, de-escalation, traffic stops, and media influence in police-community relations.

Game Changer says their methodology has been validated by data analysis from the San Diego State University Institute of Public Health.

The organization claims this analysis indicates effectiveness in changing participants’ perceptions and behaviors.

The event is open to individuals aged 13 and above, with minors requiring parental waivers to participate.

Participants will complete surveys before and after each focus group, as well as a follow-up survey five weeks later to assess long-term impact.

Dr. Aaron Bruce, Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer at ArtCenter College of Design, serves as Game Changer’s Board Chair. The nonprfit said online that the Pasadena Police Department is partnering for this initiative.

Typically, Game Changer’s model includes attendance at a sporting or entertainment event following the focus group discussion. Specifics for Pasadena were not provided.

Interested parties can RSVP or by emailing celina@gamechanger1.org, with attendance offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information, individuals can visit www.GameChanger1.org.

This event represents an opportunity for Pasadena residents to engage in constructive dialogue with law enforcement, potentially improving community relations.