LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Sometimes the best way to show someone what a career is like is to let them experience it firsthand.
That’s the idea behind the Louisville Metro Police Department's new program, She Serves, which recently graduated its first class of women.
Berkeley Saltsman, one of the 26 graduates, said the program has given her “a new purpose in life” and a fresh goal for the future.
“One night a week for seven weeks, we got more than the ten-cent tour of life as an LMPD officer,” Saltsman said. “A few weeks ago, I saw an ad on Facebook for the She Serves program. I always say if something comes across my path, say yes, join and do it. That’s what I did.”
The mini camp-style program provides women a hands-on look at what police work involves. Participants experienced shooting scenarios, self-defense training, and more—all taught by women, including retired LMPD officers.
Minerva Variola, LMPD’s Equity and Diversity representative, explained the reasoning behind the program: “Why not create a space where women can sit, talk, and understand what the police department is all about so they feel like they could do it?”
For Saltsman, the experience was personal. She reflected on the loss of her sister-in-law years ago and how that tragedy made her reevaluate her own path in life.
Two women from the class have already decided to join the department and will enter a recruit class either later this year or early next year. The remaining participants hope to share their experience within their communities.
To learn more about the program, click here.
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