Behind The Badge: How Our Youth Are Seeing Police in a New Light.

Building Bridges, Not Barriers:

When most young people think about the police, it’s often in the context of sirens, arrests, or something gone wrong. But last week, our Westside and Portland Tidechangers got to experience something completely different, something that changes the narrative.

As part of Police Appreciation Week, these incredible youth walked into their local police departments not in fear, but with curiosity, honor, and a heart ready to serve. They asked questions, explored the station, sat in patrol cars, and even turned on the sirens and lights, not as suspects, but as guests. And that’s the point.

Why It Matters

In many communities, especially those facing challenges like fatherlessness or poverty, the relationship between law enforcement and young people can feel strained, or even broken. Many youth only encounter officers during crisis moments. That narrow view can lead to mistrust, misunderstanding, and even fear. But events like this flip the script.

When youth get to meet the people behind the badge, when they see them as moms, dads, mentors, and neighbors, something powerful happens: respect grows, stereotypes break, and trust begins to build.

They learn that law enforcement isn’t just about rules and consequences, it’s also about protection, service, and community. Our youth learn that they matter, and so do the people who protect them.

This is Mentorship in Action

At Majesty Outdoors, our Tidechangers program isn’t just about outdoor adventures. It’s about life-changing experiences that teach respect, courage, and responsibility. And this day with law enforcement checked all those boxes.

We’re incredibly grateful to the officers who welcomed our kids with open arms, and to the sponsors who made this moment possible:

Thank You to Our Amazing Sponsors!

💙 Westside Tidechangers:

• Donald Gardner, Operating Partner at Sonic Drive-In (4801 S Staples), for feeding the crew with classic Sonic goodness

• H-E-B Texan Trail, for providing sweet treats that made the day even more special

  
  

💙 Portland Tidechangers:

• RBFCU, for giving out awesome goodie bags and treating the officers to a delicious meal

  
  

Want to help us create more moments like this?

Become a mentor, volunteer, or sponsor. These small acts of kindness can shape a young life forever.

👉 Make an impact.

Together, we’re building bridges — one life at a time. 💙