GREENVILLE – The second annual “Hippity Hop with a Cop,” hosted by Greenville VFW Post 7262, proved a big success as children enjoyed an Easter egg hunt and a day of family-friendly fun.
Children from walking age through 10 years old took part in a variety of activities, including an Easter egg hunt, photos with the Easter Bunny, and time on inflatable attractions. The event also gave youngsters an opportunity to interact with local first responders, meeting members of the Greenville Police Department, Greenville Fire Department, and Darke County Sheriff’s Office.
The annual event is designed to help children become familiar with police officers, deputies, EMTs, and firefighters in a positive and welcoming setting.
“We want them to see us in a different light,” said Greenville Police Chief Ryan Benge. “Over the last couple of years, we have done a good job of connecting and expanding that community outreach program. Events like this are working, and hopefully we see the benefits long term, and we can keep these relationships in the community as the kids get older.”
Adding to the experience, the Greenville Street Department displayed its trucks, giving children a close-up look at the equipment that helps keep the city running. A highlight for many was the chance to meet Greenville Police K-9 Atz, who quickly became a crowd favorite.
With growing participation and community support, the event continues to build on its success, providing a safe and engaging environment for families to connect with local agencies while celebrating the Easter season.
“We want to continue to hold the event every year,” said Post 7262 Senior Vice Bob McMiller. “We hope to make it bigger next year. We hope to have CareFlight.”
McMiller said the event is centered on helping children get to know the police, sheriff’s office, EMTs, and fire department, with agencies also handing out stickers and other items to the kids.
Twenty-five to 30 VFW volunteers helped make the event possible.
“We have a lot of volunteers who worked several weeks getting this ready and organized,” said VFW officer and volunteer Dave Cline. “Lori Denniston is very instrumental in getting this ready.”
Benge praised the VFW for its effort in organizing the event and bringing more people together.
“The VFW did a good job of reaching out and getting more people involved,” Benge said. “I love to connect with our veterans and be able to put it all together like this and see that they are standing over by the pond protecting the kids — it’s pretty neat.”
