Oviedo Police Department Revives Trading Card Program to Foster Community Connections
OVIEDO, FL — In an effort to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the community, the Oviedo Police Department is reintroducing a nostalgic trading card program designed to connect with children and their families. This initiative aims to create memorable interactions while enhancing trust between the police force and the neighborhoods they serve.
The revived trading card program features cards that showcase real police officers, and these collectible items will be distributed during surprise pop-up events throughout the city. Families are encouraged to follow the Oviedo Police Department on social media to learn where and when these events will occur, often planned for just 30 minutes at a time.
The idea of using trading cards as a tool for engagement is not new to the Oviedo Police Department. Previous iterations of this program were implemented in 2006 and 2008. Lieutenant Adam Egert, a member of the department, noted that many officers have expressed a desire to bring back the initiative over the years. “Every time we hire new officers or they come into my office, they always remark, ‘We should do that again’,” he shared.
The trading cards have an engaging design, with each card featuring an officer who serves the community. Officer Luis Garcia-Chow emphasized that the program aims to create an opportunity for positive interactions: “It’s that first step in fostering some sort of connection. The cards serve as a conversation starter.”
Through these surprise appearances, police officers hope to not only connect with local children but also provide a fun and unique way for families to engage with law enforcement. Children who collect all 16 cards during the program will receive a special prize, further incentivizing participation and community involvement.
Lieutenant Egert noted the long-lasting impact these small gestures can have. “A lot of them are really excited to see a cop, and then now to have a baseball card of a cop is even more exciting,” he stated, adding that children often remember their interactions with officers long after receiving the cards.
This initiative not only seeks to foster goodwill but also highlights the department’s commitment to reaching younger generations. “Any way that we can talk to people and reach them at a different level — whether it’s a baseball card to start a conversation — I think it’s great,” Officer Garcia-Chow remarked.
The trading card program is expected to run for several months, and families interested in participating are encouraged to monitor the Oviedo Police Department’s social media platforms for updates. Engaging with the community in creative and innovative ways like these not only helps diminish the barriers between law enforcement and residents but also promotes a culture of trust and collaboration within the Oviedo community.
