The three-part training is being pilot-tested this summer in six communities with open-air drug markets that are being targeted under Mayor Anthony Williams's short-term action plan for public safety . (The Second District is using the training to tackle a traffic safety problem.) After evaluating the training and making any necessary adjustments, the Police Department expects to begin offering the problem-solving training on each of the city's 83 police service areas (PSAs) in the fall.

"An informed community is critical to the success of community policing in our city," said Police Chief Charles H. Ramsey . "This training is an important part of our overall strategy for creating active and informed partners in all of our neighborhoods."

At the first two sessions, held June 19 and July 10, participants in the pilot training learned how to target a specific drug problem in their community, how to better understand the problem through information-collection and analysis, and how to create a plan of action. In Saturday's session, participants will report on their progress to date, celebrate their achievements, and discuss ways to maintain a positive presence in the community after their action plan has been fully implemented.

For more information about the Partnerships for Problem Solving training, or to volunteer as a community trainer or outreach worker, click on the image above or contact: