Week 17: Building Bridges Between Youth, Women, and Law Enforcement

On September 7, 2025 was Week 17 of U.N.T.A.M.E.D: 20 Weeks of Summer journey we joined them. The sun was bright, the music alive, and the energy electric as families, officers, and community members came together not just to enjoy the day, but to engage in something deeper: real dialogue about safety, trust, and the future of our youth and women.

The event took place AOS (Assembly Of Saints 4224 N 24tht Omaha 68110) a warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with laughter, learning, and genuine connection. Children played freely, exploring and creating memories, while parents engaged in heartfelt conversations about how we can build stronger communities from the inside out.

We were honored to welcome the Deputy Chief Sheri Thomas, a Lieutenant, and several members of the Omaha Police Department, who joined our circle with open hearts and open minds. Engine 15 was also on-site, sparking curiosity and excitement among the kids as they explored the fire truck, asked questions, and learned about safety and emergency response.

The police leaders spoke directly to the youth, sharing valuable wisdom on avoiding violence, staying off the streets, and making good choices in a world that often presents too many temptations. They encouraged young people to see law enforcement not as an enemy, but as an avenue a career path where they can serve, protect, and represent their communities from within.

One major theme stood out: representation matters. They spoke about the lack of minorities especially Black men and women  in law enforcement, and how much the community needs more of us in those positions of service. “You belong in these uniforms too,” she said. “We need you to bring your values, your heart, and your leadership into this work. We know our communities better then any outsider would.”

The Deputy Chief Sheri Thomas shared an important reminder that resonated with every parent present:

“Don’t teach your children to fear the police-teach them to understand the police.”

She urged families to move away from the narrative of fear and instead build relationships of respect, cooperation, and communication. She emphasized that when parents and officers work together, children grow up knowing they have a support system-not a system to be afraid of.

Our PILLAR Pathways Empowerment Program focuses heavily on creating safe spaces for youth and women to be seen, heard, and supported. This event was a living example of what that looks like in action: a community-centered dialogue where healing, education, and empowerment meet.

Participants didn’t just listen -they spoke up & youth asked questions. Mothers shared their fears about raising sons in today’s world. Young men asked hard questions about racial profiling and trust. Officers listened, responded, and reflected. That exchange -honest, respectful, and vulnerable -was exactly the kind of bridge-building our city needs.

The day ended with laughter, food, and a renewed sense of hope. Parents left feeling encouraged to continue these conversations at home. Youth left feeling inspired to dream bigger -whether that means joining law enforcement, becoming entrepreneurs, or simply becoming better leaders within their communities.

Reflections from PILLAR

At PILLAR INC, we believe change starts with connection. When our youth feel seen, when our women feel supported, and when our community works hand in hand with those who serve it -healing begins.

Week 17 reminded us that we can’t heal what we don’t talk about. Dialogue breaks barriers. Representation restores trust. And together, we can create a safer, stronger Omaha- one built on faith, dignity, and integrity.

The kids had an incredible opportunity to sit inside a real police car and experience what it’s like behind the scenes of law enforcement. The Lieutenant (1st to the right) spent time with the children and youth, teaching valuable lessons about staying away from the streets, making wise choices, and understanding the consequences of negative actions.

He reminded them that being arrested or involved in violence only limits their future but discipline, education, and integrity open doors to opportunity. Many of the youth listened closely, asking thoughtful questions and learning that law enforcement isn’t just about authority, it’s about protection, service, and community partnership.

Back of police car