The San Mateo Sheriff’s Office said it is launching a new program to help build a more constructive partnership with the local community.
“To enhance safety, we have to create an environment of trust and transparency,” said San Mateo sheriff Christina Corpus in a statement.
CARE will consist of three community advisory forums, one for each county - North, South and Coastside. The forums will consist of 15 community volunteers, who will meet with the sheriff’s office once every quarter.
“Each community faces unique challenges, and in order to provide the needed support and resources, we need to engage directly with them. We must be out in the community; listen to and learn from residents and stakeholders,” Corpus said.
The program's goal is to foster community engagement and share information about ongoing initiatives, exchange ideas and discuss concerns.
CARE will aim to make the sheriff’s office more accessible to the community and allow Corpus and her leadership team to directly engage with residents, small businesses and community organizations.
The program is now accepting applications for its forum members. Volunteer participants will serve approximately five hours per month.
The application deadline is Feb. 14 by 5 p.m. The application is available through the form at Care For SMC. For a Spanish application, click here.
