What's Happening in Hayward, CA…

The Hayward Police Department has started trying out an innovative citizen engagement project in downtown Hayward - volunteer ambassadors. This is an opportunity to work on safety issues and support businesses.

Ambassadors focus on creating a welcoming, downtown shopping experience for visitors and also assist the police department by identifying possible safety issues. As for duties, ambassadors make themselves available to help shoppers find stores, restaurants, and parking in the downtown area. They promote local attractions and special events to visitors, and identify to police anything untoward they might observe on duty, such as an abandoned car, graffiti, or illegal activity.

Volunteers work in pairs and wear an identifiable piece of clothing, such as a shirt or jacket, to let the public know of their ambassador status. A police radio is also provided for immediate contact with the department if emergency assistance is required.

For the program to work successfully, volunteers must pass a background check, attend classroom training, and successfully finish a field training program. Training subject matter is designed to familiarize volunteers with expectations and skills relevant to the role of an ambassador.

Whether an owner of a boutique clothing store or a poster printing shop, this recruitment of residents to enhance the visitor experience and improve safety in the downtown district is sure to be a welcome initiative.