SAFETY AMBASSADORS
In the puzzle that is the South Park Neighborhood, Safety Ambassadors are an important and impactful piece. Provided through the Social District BID, they add an extra layer of security to our community.
These courageous professionals can be found patrolling the area in their signature green and tan uniforms on foot, on a bike, or in a truck. Their daily duties involve making rounds on their assigned routes and addressing any incidents encountered along the way. They conduct hot spot checks and perform wellness checks which are proactive assessments to ensure someone’s safety and health. Other common calls are trespassing, disruptions to businesses, and the homeless making camp blocking doorways or sidewalks.
Desmond, a Safety Ambassador in South Park describes how each day brings new experiences, something Desmond enjoys about his job since he likes to try new things. He also enjoys engaging with the myriad personalities he encounters, even when a portion of them are agitated and angry transients. It takes skill and composure to approach and communicate efficiently and effectively. Theresa, who is a mother and mechanic by day and supervisor in the program by night, introduces herself politely when she addresses people in South Park. She explains that it is crucial to be agile and to change and adjust as necessary how she responds to various situations to achieve the best outcome. She finds this career fulfilling and fitting to her tough nature, and is hoping to make a difference.
Another service provided by the ambassadors is to escort individuals walking to their residence, their car, or to the nearest transit stop. They can escort within any area of the South Park district.
Safety support can be reached at (866) 560-9346 or by email at dispatch@lasocialdistrict.com. They offer assistance to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In case of emergency, dial 911.
Residents should always adhere to the basics: of staying alert, aware, and watching their surroundings. Saving the safety team’s contact information in your phone is recommended in case you ever need their assistance. If there is a concern, let the safety team know and so that they can help address the issue.
The BID also maintains a lost and found which contains many objects including lost IDs and passports. A memorable moment for Chase, an off duty creative artist, was helping a local find his lost phone. To this day, the individual still remembers and thanks him for helping him.
The South Park community is grateful to the Bid and the Safety Ambassadors who help keep South Park safe.
To learn more, visit the Social District BID website is www.lasocialdistrict.com.
By: Ginna Torretti