November 6, 2020 – Mayor Kevin M. Scarpati Proclaims “Maria Colandrea Day”
MERIDEN- The Meriden Police Cadet Program wants to recognize and honor Cadet Maria Colandrea for her four years of success within the Cadet Program. Colandrea is graduating from the program after having an almost perfect attendance while maintaining high honors at her High School, Community College, and Central Connecticut University where she is currently in her junior year. Colandrea has been recognized on several occasions while competing with cadets from the New England area and has also been a mentor to other cadets within the program.
“We wish Maria excitement, prosperity and good health as she continues on her path to success,” said Officer Jeffrey Witkins of the MPD and Advisor to the Meriden Cadet Program. “Cadet Colandrea has been an asset to the program and has had her share of accomplishments and has shown tremendous growth in the four years. We know that her future will be full of amazing endeavors and that her service to her community will be greatly appreciated.”
This month, the Mayor and City Council publicly honored Maria with the “Spirit of Meriden Award” for her exemplary community spirit. In addition, Mayor Kevin M. Scarpati also proclaimed Friday, November 6, 2020 as ‘Maria Colandrea Day” in the City of Meriden.
The Meriden Cadet Program is a nonprofit organization sponsored and administrated by the Meriden Police Department and is affiliated with the North East Regional Law Enforcement Educational Association. This program, founded in 1981, was created with the mission to provide different aspects of police work to young adults between the ages of 14 and 21 who are interested in a career within Law Enforcement and Public Services.
The program prepares these cadets to mature and become responsible, caring adults. Cadets form unique relationships with trained and certified Police instructors as they are exposed to the many facets of Law Enforcement including the duties and responsibilities of a Police Officer, forensic science, investigation, self-defense, firearms and weaponry. Throughout the year, cadets will participate in several activities to better the quality of life of Meriden residents like:
• Food Drives
• Gift Wrapping events for the less fortunate
• Participation at the Daffodil Festival
• Community Projects (i.e. marking trails at Hubbard Park)
Annually, the cadets will participate in Stations Day at the Meriden Police Academy which is a daylong competition with Police Cadets from over 45 other Police Departments within the New England area. In addition, the cadets will participate in a week long summer camp held at a local University that mirrors Police Academy life.
The Meriden Cadet Program has helped produce respectful, trustworthy citizens who have a desire to serve others. Several Meriden Police Cadets are on the honor roll, attend college or a trade school. If you have any questions regarding the Meriden Police Cadets or are interested in becoming a member, please call 203-630-6291 or send an email to mpdcadets@meridenct.gov. Applications can be obtained from an existing Cadet or at the front desk at the Meriden Police Department.
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