Hiddenbrooke resident Ed Medina retired from the Richmond Police Department as Deputy Police Chief in 2015 after over 27 years of service. But he hasn’t stopped serving that community. Carmen Santana, a former police officer who Ed had recruited, launched a non-profit organization Touch of New Life with a misssion is to support area youth. Carman convinced Ed to join her as the organization’s Director of Operations.
Right now, Ed is focused recruiting guest speakers and coordinating logistics for their Youth Public Safety Academy. The 3-week course in June offers Richmond youth a glimpse at the technical skills needed to be a police officer, firefighter or medic. The youth also learn about time management, accountability, communication skills, teamwork, integrity and the importance of respect. Youth go through physical trainig and have classroom time where they meet professionals who are passionate about mentoring the next generation of public safety personnel.
Ed says some of the greatest lessons for the youth are in the development of soft skills like how to prepare a resume and to conduct themselves in a job interview. This year’s curriculum will include past participants returning to share how beneficial the Academy lessons were for them.
Hiddenbrooke neighbors are invited to learn more about the Academy specifically and the Touch of New Life organization in general at https://www.touchofnewlife.org/. Consider donating to the cause at https://www.touchofnewlife.org/blank-4. You may reach our neighbor Ed Medina directly at em1127@att.net or (707) 342-3965.
Leave a Reply