Understanding is key to community.

It’s wonderful when neighbors understand when someone needs a hand. A classic Minnesota example is the guy with a snow blower clearing the driveways of elderly neighbors.

Another example is when the Early Risers Kiwanis Club and Austin’s Faith Evangelical Church gave $500 donations to six Austin School District sites because they came to understand a problem some children are facing. The money goes toward Kiwanis Kids Closets, which are stocked with basic needs that educators can discreetly get to children in need — socks, underwear, boots, etc.

It can be lifesaving when police and residents in an emergency situation know and understand each other.

The Austin Police Department for the third year in a row is trying to spread understanding about its jobs and get to know some residents better. In this day and age when the police profession is coming under more and more scrutiny because of tragic situations throughout the nation, this outreach seems more important than ever.

Trust and understanding goes a long way in helping police do their best protecting and serving the residents of Austin.

The Citizen Academy starts in September. The department is taking applications now, but space is limited to 18 participants. We encourage everyone to consider signing up, particularly where better understanding of each other could help cure a strained relationship.

Sign up for the academy

The free, six-week Citizens Academy will be every Tuesday from 6-8:30 p.m. on Sept. 12, 19 and 26 and Oct. 3, 10 and 17 at the Law Enforcement Center, 201 First St. NE.

The department asks that those who sign-up please plan to attend all sessions.

To participate, you must be an Austin resident or business owner age 21 or older. Applications are available at the Law Enforcement Center or online at www.ci.austin.mn.us. Register early as class size is limited.

For more information, call 507-437-9400.