In an ongoing effort to connect with the University of Nevada, Reno community, University Police Services is hosting "Coffee with a Cop," an event designed to break down the barriers between police officers and the citizens they serve. The event will take place at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 3, in the Randall Rotunda in the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center.

Designed to be an informal gathering of University Police Services officers, the event is open to students, faculty, staff and anyone with a vested University interest. While there is no set agenda, Coffee with a Cop is designed to offer an open dialogue to discuss community issues and build relationships.

"We hope that community members will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns or simply attend to get to know our officers," University Police Services Assistant Vice President and Director Adam Garcia said. "These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships."

Coffee with a Cop provides an opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department's work on and around the University.

"The majority of contacts law enforcement has with the public happen during emergencies or emotional situations," Garcia said. "Those situations are not always the most effective times for relationship building with the community, and some community members may feel that officers are unapproachable on the street. Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction."

Coffee with a Cop is a national initiative supported by The United States Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services. Similar events are being held across the county, as local police departments strive to make lasting connections with the communities they serve. The program aims to advance the practice of community policing through improving relationships between police officers and community members one cup of coffee at a time.