Sun, Fun and Science: Using Technology to Engage Minority Youth in Miami Beach

Abstract

This case study describes how a multiorganizational partnership between the Miami Beach Police Department (MBPD), Miami Beach Police Athletic League (MBPAL) and Axon’s Global Strategic Community Impact Team was formed to address a community concern. The concern centered around the lack of minority youth’s participation and perceived interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programs. A coalition of caring cops, counselors, and consultants set out to address the situation, using drones and related technology to connect with youth at the local MBPAL. This initiative also helped youth to create positive experiences with the police and their community. Due to the exploratory nature of this program, this initiative lacked measurable outcomes, apart from anecdotal accounts. It was recommended that the MBPAL pursue programs which measure such outcomes, of which they did. This experience helped the MBPAL to focus on youth interventions that included measurable outcomes. Ultimately, it served as a springboard for other grant funded programs that required performance measures.