On January 29, 2020, the New York City Police Foundation hosted its Annual “State of the NYPD” Breakfast at the Pierre Hotel in New York City. The event featured a briefing by Police Commissioner Dermot Shea.

Commissioner Shea highlighted in his remarks that the NYPD is acutely aware of the important role young people play in any effort to effectively control crime. That’s why the NYPD’s new youth strategy is central to the Department’s plans in 2020 and beyond. The New York City Police Foundation is committed to spearheading these efforts and has already helped to develop and launch the Options program which uses virtual reality technology to provide young people with conflict resolution and decision-making skills, a voice in their community, and ultimately, career development opportunities.

Options is just one of the many ways the Foundation assists the NYPD, some of which were also highlighted at the event. New lightweight ballistic vests for NYPD Detectives, explosive detection canines, and officers stationed overseas as International Liaisons; all made possible by the partnership between the Foundation and the NYPD.

“The collaboration between the NYPD and the Police Foundation has proven effective for nearly half a century now,” Commissioner Shea said,  “and our work has ushered in an era of unprecedented public safety in New York City.”