Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office (NPSO) and the Natchitoches Fire Department visited the NSU Marie Shaw Dunn Child Development Center on May 14 to participate in Community Helper Day, an annual event designed to educate and inspire the community’s youngest learners.
Captain Shane LaCaze and School Resource Officer Deputy Sergeant David Dorsey led the Sheriff’s Office presentation, speaking with the children about the role of law enforcement, personal safety, and how deputies work to protect and serve their communities. The deputies took time to answer an array of thoughtful and enthusiastic questions, fostering trust and encouraging positive relationships with local law enforcement.
The Natchitoches Fire Department also joined in the fun, offering children a hands-on look at firefighting gear and vehicles. Firefighters shared important fire safety tips in a way that was both fun and easy for the children to understand.
One of the day’s highlights included young student Nolan, proudly dressed in SWAT gear and standing alongside Sgt. Dorsey and Capt. LaCaze. Nolan is the son of NPSO Lt. C. Campbell, adding a heartwarming family connection to the event. Several other students came dressed in miniature police uniforms and excitedly told Sgt. Dorsey they wanted to be police officers when they grow up.
“Events like this are incredibly rewarding,” said Capt. LaCaze. “We’re always grateful for opportunities to engage with kids and help them see that law enforcement is here to protect and support them. Plus, it’s a lot of fun for us, too.”
Community Helper Day serves as a valuable platform for young students to learn about the essential services first responders provide, while building early connections between public safety officials and the children they serve.
The NSU Marie Shaw Dunn Child Development Center regularly hosts community outreach events to introduce children to various professions and the people who make a difference in their community every day.
Sheriff Stuart Wright added “we were pleased to attend today’s event and thank the Marie Shaw Dunn Child Development Center for the invitation.”
