During a presentation at Thursday’s session, Erie County Legislator John Mills recognized the Orchard Park Police Department for its 25th year implementing the D.A.R.E. program throughout schools.
The Orchard Park Police Department has been teaching the D.A.R.E. program since 1993 in an effort to educate youth on the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse as well as provide them with decision-making tools to lead safe and healthy lives. The program has been taught to 5th graders in local schools and has reached over 15,000 students
“It was an honor to recognize Orchard Park Police Chief Pacholec and the D.A.R.E. officers for their outstanding work to protect our community and educate children on the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse,” said Legislator Mills. “Our youth are fortunate to have these men and women as role models!”
Joined by Chief Pacholec, the D.A.R.E. Officers recognized were Officer Tom Buranich, Chief Andrew Benz, Detective John Payne, Lieutenant Patrick Fitzgerald, Officer Leonard Govenittio, Officer Brian Lukowski and Officer Kristen Mazur.
A copy of the proclamation can be found here.