The Myrtle Beach Police Department (MBPD) has officially launched a new community outreach initiative in 2025 designed to strengthen local relationships, promote public safety education, and address community issues through collaboration. The effort builds upon the department’s existing engagement programs and newly enhanced partnerships with local and national organizations.
Core Focus of the Program
The expanded outreach efforts stem from MBPD’s partnership with the Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative (PAARI), which emphasizes a compassionate approach toward addiction, mental health, and homelessness. Under Chief Amy Prock’s leadership, the department aims to move beyond enforcement to provide outreach, education, and recovery support. Officers and social workers now coordinate to connect residents with treatment resources and housing services rather than defaulting to arrest-based solutions.
New and Continuing Community Programs
The outreach initiative integrates several long-running community engagement projects, including:
Citizens Police Academy – A 10-week program that teaches residents how local law enforcement operates, from K-9 demonstrations to criminal investigations. It encourages transparency and hands-on learning for community participants.
Community Ambassador Program – Local volunteers assist visitors and residents, acting as liaisons between MBPD and neighborhoods while creating awareness about safety and community events.
Neighborhood Watch – More than two dozen neighborhood groups work with the department to hold safety meetings, address local concerns, and share communication channels with crime prevention officers.
International Student Outreach Program (ISOP) – In partnership with the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Hospitality Association, this program helps seasonal international workers acclimate safely to the city.
Collaborative Partnerships and Goals
MBPD’s 2025 outreach strategy also expands cooperation with faith-based community networks, schools, and youth mentorship programs like Cops & Bobbers and the Junior Police Academy, encouraging positive police-youth relationships. The department’s leadership emphasizes building “trust through action” and providing visible, compassionate engagement in all city neighborhoods.
Residents can learn more about the new community outreach initiative and register for volunteer opportunities through police.cityofmyrtlebeach.com or by contacting the MBPD Annex at Mustang Street.
SOURCE
[1](https://paariusa.org/2025/01/27/myrtle-beach-leaders-to-present-collaborative-community-effort-at-paari-webinar/)
[2](https://police.cityofmyrtlebeach.com/programs/)
[3](https://police.cityofmyrtlebeach.com/programs/citizens-police-academy/)
[4](https://www.facebook.com/myrtlebeachpolice/posts/today-8132025-officers-from-the-myrtle-beach-police-department-north-myrtle-beac/1208644544638971/
[5](https://www.instagram.com/p/DKFCxuAqS6u/)
