It’s not the typical day shift for Officer Corsi. He keeps getting challenged to do push-ups, jumping jacks and frog leap races by the younger members of Bethlehem’s community. His latest challenger, Mackenzie Lintner, jumps in excitement after winning her race against him.

A few of Corsi’s colleagues are also busy, spending the afternoon of April 20 engaging with the city’s youth, who are enjoying the day meeting K-9s, petting the department’s horses, playing games, and listening to music on the grounds of Fowler Family Southside Center.

The event was organized by the Lehigh Valley Chapter of Cops ‘n’ Kids, with the help Bethlehem School District, the Mayor’s Office, Bethlehem City Police, Wegmans and countless volunteers. Over 700 local students took part in this year’s celebration.

Cops ‘n’ Kids started in 1998 by Wisconsin Officer Julia Whiterspoon, who believed in the importance of youth outreach in law enforcement.

The vision of Cops ‘n’ Kids is of importance to Bethlehem City Police Chief Michelle Kott, who makes it a point to have her department participate in such events.

“Police departments need to get out into the community. They need to interact with the community members, and this is a fantastic opportunity to do so,” explained Kott.

Reinforcing her point, she went on to say the children are “so excited to meet police officers.

“We have these great interactions, and we are really hoping that as the kids grow-up, they realize that we’re their friends, we’re here to serve the community and have positive relationships with them. That we’re not this occupying force and we’re hoping to really build those bonds now when they are younger.”

Councilwoman Rachel Leon said the Southside is a perfect location to get out the feeling of what a community is.

“I love that Cops ‘n’ Kids are here,” she said.

“One of the things community members have told us is to see cops walking around in the neighborhood. So, having this event is a whole lot of fun. Kids always are here. I always see my neighbors down here, having fun with the horses, having fun with the bike cops. I love it when this event happens.”

For twin sisters Amorette and Amora Melendez, petting the police horses was the highlight of the day.

Amorette said with excitement, “Every time we pet the horse, he would turn around and sniff us.”

The Melendez sisters were also happy to get free books.

Each child attending the event received a free book of their choosing, something Officer Witherspoon started out of her squad car in the early days of Cops ‘n’ Kids. It is a tradition which continues to this day in all chapters of the organization.

For Beverly Bradley, president of Cops ‘n’ Kids Literacy Program, the day was a success.

“With Mother Nature cooperating with us, as well, it was a day that we can all cherish because it truly reflects who we are as a community – and exemplifies the spirit that exists throughout our city.”