The Wake Forest Police Department (WFPD) continues to build strong ties with residents through thoughtful outreach and community events designed to foster trust, safety, and connection. By engaging residents in casual, approachable ways, WFPD demonstrates that officers are not just enforcers of the law but also active, caring members of the community.
Earlier this month, the department took part in Wake Forest’s Family Movie Night series at Joyner Park, culminating in a special event on Saturday, August 2, where residents had a chance to meet newly appointed Police Chief Julius Jefferson. Chief Jefferson, who officially took on the role in July after serving as Interim Chief since February, used the opportunity to mingle with families in a relaxed atmosphere and share his vision for the department moving forward.
Sgt. Jeffrey McArthur, who leads many of the department’s community engagement efforts, explained that events like this help break down barriers between officers and residents. “Visibility in the community is key to building relationships,” he said. “We want to give residents a chance to talk to us, ask questions, and connect in ways that are comfortable and meaningful.”
WFPD’s mission to create a safer and more welcoming environment extends beyond community events to supporting local economic development. “Our patrol officers actively work to keep business districts safe by conducting regular patrols and responding promptly when businesses call for assistance,” McArthur said. “We also build personal relationships with business owners and employees, which makes the business community feel safer and more supported.”
The department’s outreach includes a variety of programs that connect with the local business community throughout the year. Events such as the Thanksgiving turkey drive, Shop with a Cop, and fundraisers benefiting the Special Olympics are made possible in part through partnerships with local businesses that contribute donations or offer discounts. “Many of the businesses that help us also receive publicity through our social media and press releases, creating a mutually beneficial relationship,” McArthur noted.
Listening to business owners and responding to their concerns is a priority for WFPD. The department’s officers maintain daily communication with businesses, whether through casual foot patrols or responding to specific complaints. Additionally, the department employs a crime analyst who reviews local crime statistics to help deploy resources where they are needed most.
The department’s next major community engagement event is the highly anticipated Too Cool for School event scheduled for Wednesday, August 20, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This free event will be held simultaneously at Taylor Street Park, located at 416 N. Taylor Street, and Joyner Park Community Center at 701 Harris Road.
Designed to help local students and families get ready for the upcoming school year, Too Cool for School offers kids a chance to meet and interact with officers in fun, and informal settings. At Taylor Street Park, younger children can enjoy the sprayground and outdoor games while chatting with police officers. At Joyner Park Community Center, officers will play basketball with older kids and teens.
“We want kids to see us as part of the fabric of their community, not just someone in uniform,” McArthur said. “Whether we are handing out rulers or rebounding basketballs, we are showing up for them in ways that matter.”
Both locations will also feature school supply giveaways, including notebooks, pencils, and other essentials to help students start the year on solid footing.
Community events like Too Cool for School allow officers to connect with residents outside of emergency situations, building trust through positive interaction. “These gatherings give us the chance to show our human side,” McArthur added. “Often, people only see police officers during difficult times. Events like this help change that narrative.”
The events are held in partnership with Wake Forest’s Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Department and supported by the Wake Forest Business and Industry Partnership (WFBIP), which highlights the programs and initiatives that contribute to making Wake Forest a vibrant, connected community.
“We are proud to support programs like Too Cool for School,” said Jason Cannon, President of the WFBIP. “Chief Jefferson’s focus on community engagement and recognition of the importance of the town’s business community is exactly what makes Wake Forest a place where residents and businesses feel safe, supported, and valued. These events help create stronger bonds between our police department and the families they serve.”
With proactive community engagement and a focus on economic development, the Wake Forest Police Department continues to play an essential role in shaping a welcoming, safe, and thriving town.
