The Garland Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association (GCPAAA) hosted its annual Christmas party Monday, Dec. 12. GCPAAA members, along with GPD officers and administration, celebrated Christmas and another year of volunteering with the Garland Police Department.
Garland’s Police Chief Jeff Bryan, Lt. Richard Maldonado, Officers Matt Pesta and Felicia Jones and retired officer Dave Swavey addressed the group and praised the work of the volunteer group.
The GCPAAA is a group of people who have completed the 12-week Garland Citizens Police Academy program. The program, according to www.garlandtx.gov/331/police, focuses attention on the internal values, philosophy and operations of the Garland Police Department. It is meant to educate citizens on the different aspects of GPD and their role in the interaction of citizens and police. Graduates of the program are encouraged to share what they learn about the police department with other citizens.
The GCPAAA website explains that the group was founded as a stand-alone, nonprofit organization and that it is independent of the GPD. Its purpose is to provide a way in which CPA graduates can give back to the department and the community. It is an all-volunteer organization made up of people whose interest and appreciation of the GPD unites them in service.
The group’s general meetings are held at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of each month. Business is conducted and a guest speaker is featured at each meeting.
Just a few of their volunteer activities include:
- Assistance at city of Garland’s annual Christmas tree lighting event
- Assistance at Mad Dog Moore Bass Fishing Tournament
- Vacation patrol
- Handicapped parking space patrol
- Guns & Hoses Boxing Tournament
- Guns & Hoses Golf Tournament
The GCPAAA has received numerous awards through the years as evidenced by the display case in the foyer of the Garland Police Department. There are more awards than would fit in the case.
The organization will mark 30 years of service in March 2023.