I began doing research for an article on our National Night
Out program when I came across some “random acts of kindness”. I was talking
with a civilian who explained to me all the inner workings and history of the
National Night Out program. After I had all the pertinent information, I asked
if she had any photos she could share. She told me she did and that they each
had a story behind them. So of course, I became sidetracked and wanted to know
more. She shared with me the photos above and this is the story.
The community group is known as JL Young. It is an apartment
complex that is run by Tampa Housing Authority and houses primarily elderly and
disabled residents on fixed incomes. Their community watch group is very active
but limited in funding due to their circumstances. On one occasion, two Tampa
Police Officers (Katie Thanasas and Neil Pelletier) attended one of their
meetings. Most groups have snacks and refreshments as part of their regular
meetings; however, the officers quickly realized this group did not have the
funding to purchase refreshments. The residents were still very excited the two
officers showed up and supported their mission to make the place they live a
safer and happier community. In the middle of the meeting, Officer Thanasas
quietly left, while Officer Pelletier assured the group that she would be
returning. A short while later, Officer Thanasas returned with enough pizzas to
feed the entire group and their guests. The two young officers used their own
money to purchase the pizzas. The JL Young residents didn't even realize the
officers had done this.
Most people think that you become a police officer because
you like donuts and coffee. Well okay, maybe more so for the donuts! But the
truth is, these two officers demonstrated the reason that most people go into
law enforcement. People enter the profession of policing because they have an
intrinsic desire to help others make the world around them a better place.
Sometimes they do this by catching the criminal and sometimes they do it by
random acts of kindness and giving. They
don't do it for recognition, they don't do it for prestige, they do it because
they care! These two young officers saw a need and filled it. They weren't
seeking an award or a commendation or even a “thank you”, they just had a commitment to service and
wanted to help the community they live in.
These types of things happen all the time but are seldom reported. When
I am lucky enough to hear of the selflessness of others and especially of my
peers and co-workers, it reminds me why I am proud to put on this uniform
everyday. Thank you Officer Thanasas and Officer Pelletier for reminding me why
I became a Tampa Police Officer!
Blog Contributor: Officer Robin Polk
Awesome. But, I've known or a long time that TPD is great and generous, too.
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