MTPD Supports Cops & Hoopers Event
Leusner Honored for Gym Buddies Program
Volunteers from the Middle Township Department, along with officers from several other local agencies, partnered with No Limits Boxing Academy to host the Cops and Hoopers Event for 3rd -6th graders on March 9th. Academy participants rotated between four stations designed to hone personal, professional and on-court skills, to not only develop basketball abilities but to ensure youth become stewards of the community.
Each station was led by local police officers representing different Cape May County Law Enforcement Agencies. Sgt. Ron Miller and Officer Alyssa Jones represented Middle Township Police Department.
Sgt.Miller took the opportunity to engage with the youth, sharing insights into the requirements and training involved in becoming a law enforcement officer. He also provided demonstrations of police equipment, showcased a police vehicle, and encouraged the youngsters to aspire to become future leaders within their community.
Officer Alyssa Jones, along with law enforcement colleagues, monitored the fitness station. Here, the focus was on educating the children about maintaining healthy lifestyles and imparting proper physical fitness techniques. These interactive workouts were designed to demonstrated not only the importance of staying fit but also motivate the youngsters to embrace an active and healthy lifestyle.
“Events like Cops and Hoopers are invaluable opportunities for our community’s youth to not only develop their athletic skills and personal skills but also to build meaningful connections with law enforcement officers,” Police Chief Jennifer Pooler said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to partner with No Limits Academy and other local law enforcement agencies to advance our mission to positively engage our kids through community policing.”
Mayor Christopher Leusner, joined by No Limits Academy founder Josh Mercado, gave the opening remarks sending his best wishes to the participants while thanking the police officers for volunteering their time. Leusner was honored by Mercado for his ongoing contributions to the county’s youth.
Mayor Leusner was instrumental in assisting Josh Mercado in realizing his vision to create a safe space for the children of Cape May County and connecting Mercado with law enforcement officers and first responders to build a network of partners to provide ongoing support. Together, Leusner and Mercado created No Limits Academy’s Gym Buddies Program, aimed at developing relationships of mutual trust and respect between police officers and youth.
“I’m truly honored to be recognized, but Josh Mercado is the real story here,” Mayor Leusner said. “Josh’s unrelenting commitment to our kids through the positive programs offered by No Limits Academy is making a lasting difference in the life of so many young folks in Middle Township and beyond. I want to thank all the officers that volunteered and the many generous sponsors that continue to support these vital programs.”
