MVSB is pleased to announce that the charitable fund carrying its name has awarded a $1,000 grant to the Laconia Police Department. These funds will be put toward the Police Department’s “Cop Card” program.
The Laconia Police Department’s “Cop Card” program was put in place in 1997. The cards, similar in style to a baseball trading card, contain a picture and biography of each Laconia Police Officer. Children throughout the community are encouraged to seek out their local police officers, introduce themselves and ask for their “Cop Card.” The program promotes a sense of community through positive interactions with local law enforcement.
“During challenging economic times, operating budgets can not provide for community outreach initiatives, such as the ‘Cop Card’ program,” said Laconia Police Department Captain Matthew Canfield. “We are fortunate to have local partners, like Meredith Village Savings Bank, that recognize the importance of these programs and step forward to provide support so that they can continue. The ‘Cop Card’ program is a valuable part our community policing program and it allows children to get to know their local law enforcement officers as role models and resources.”
The Laconia Police Department is a progressive, community-oriented police agency dedicated to a problem-solving model of policing in which the root causes or problems are addressed rather than only implementing quick fix solutions. The mission of the Department is to enhance the quality of life for residents, business people and visitors to the City of Laconia. Their function is to prevent crime, to protect people and property, and to enforce state statutes and local ordinances. In meeting their mission, the Laconia Police Department builds positive relationships; encouraging citizen involvement in the identification and solution of problems within the community.
MVSB established the MVSB fund in 1997 under the leadership of John Starrett who was then president and CEO of the Bank. Since then, 235 grants totaling more than $872,000 have been awarded to a wide range of environmental, social, educational, and historic projects throughout the Lakes Region and Plymouth area. Over the years, the Fund has supported literacy programs, after-school programs, environmental monitoring and education, restoration of historic structures, organizations that provide support for individuals and families in challenging circumstances, and equipment that helps save lives. Grant requests are due annually on October 15th.
Photo Caption: MVSB Regional Vice President, Robyn Masteller (second from right) and Gilford Branch and Business Development Officer, Becky Reposa (second from left) present a $1000 check to Laconia Police Department Captain Matthew Canfield (left), Officer Michelle Cardinal (center) and Officer Lindsey Legere (right). This check represents a grant from the MVSB Charitable Fund to support the Laconia Police Department’s “Cop Card” Program.
