This summer, residents of Plainfield Tower West, a Springpoint affordable housing community, are participating in the Senior Citizen Police Academy, a first-of-its-kind educational initiative that is strengthening community connections, enhancing public safety awareness, and empowering older adults through lifelong learning.
The six-week program, launched in June, brings together 15 resident cadets to learn directly from local law enforcement and emergency services professionals. Made possible through a grant from the Springpoint Foundation, the academy is offered in partnership with the Plainfield Police Department and the City of Plainfield Office of Emergency Management, providing residents with firsthand insight into the public safety agencies that serve their community while equipping them with practical knowledge they can use in everyday life.
For many participants, the academy provides an opportunity to stay engaged, learn new skills, and strengthen their connection to the community while continuing a lifelong commitment to service.
“I’ll always take a chance to help a fellow neighbor,” shared resident Patricia Buck, a former member of the Plainfield rescue squad. “We’re so lucky to have this opportunity to be trailblazers in this first class of cadets.”
Learning from Those Who Serve
Led by Detective John Franklin of the Plainfield Police Department, the program introduces participants to law enforcement operations, emergency response, crime prevention, and community safety. Weekly sessions bring cadets into direct conversation with police officers, firefighters, emergency management personnel, and EMS professionals, creating valuable opportunities for dialogue and relationship-building.
The initiative was formally recognized during a swearing-in ceremony in May attended by Plainfield Mayor Adrian O. Mapp, whose administration has championed the partnership as an example of community collaboration. The ceremony celebrated the inaugural class of cadets and underscored the collective commitment of city leaders, public safety professionals, and Springpoint to investing in the wellbeing of older adults.
At the helm of the academy are Plainfield Tower West Executive Director Sandra Pettiford and Resident Services Coordinator Adia Clark, whose leadership has helped bring the program from concept to reality and ensure residents have access to this unique opportunity.
Putting Knowledge into Practice
During the first weeks of the academy, cadets toured the Plainfield Police Department, where they learned about dispatch operations, professional standards, and law enforcement procedures. They also visited the Plainfield Fire Department Headquarters and Fire Division Engine 3, exploring emergency equipment, touring fire apparatus, and receiving fire safety education tailored to older adults. Most recently, participants met with Sergeant Bethea to learn the phonetic alphabet and discuss the importance of emergency preparedness and evacuation planning.
For resident cadet Virginia Grimes, a former home health aide, the academy provides an opportunity to continue serving others while remaining engaged in community life.
“This experience allows us to connect with others in different ways. It’s a great way to help the people around you and help keep them safe until professional help can assist.”
Building Safer, Stronger Communities
More than a public safety program, the Senior Citizen Police Academy reflects Springpoint’s commitment to helping older adults live engaged, purposeful, and connected lives. Through innovative partnerships like this—and with the continued support of the Springpoint Foundation—Springpoint is creating meaningful opportunities that promote lifelong learning, foster community involvement, encourage independence, and empower residents to remain active, informed, and connected in the communities they call home.
As the academy continues through the summer, residents will gain broader exposure to the departments and professionals who help keep Plainfield safe while developing knowledge and skills they can share with neighbors, friends, and family members.
