Law Enforcement
Trading Cards-
Why Do You Need Them?
The Law Enforcement Trading
Card programs that are now a part of departments and agencies around
the world began in 1991 when a department in California discovered that
citizens (kids in particular) were attracted to trading cards handed
out by police officers.
Since then local police organizations,
sheriff's units, state highway patrols and even college campus safety
divisions have been developing programs that emphasize law enforcement
personnel as Local Heroes...those people who not only protect our communities
but provide a positive influence for our kids.
The trading cards have acted
as great ice breakers for officers on the beat, but they are also used
to reinforce safety messages and have become collectible items. Kids
want the cards and participate in all sorts of programs that give children
and adults of all ages good information about law enforcement and public
safety.
As community policing grows
in popularity among departments, the ability to make officers and deputies
more approachable helps bring the community together. Even businesses
become part of the effort as sponsors for card programs. Everybody wins!