Press Release  From the Academy to the Community: MPTC Student Officers Support Holiday Drives Across Massachusetts

MASSACHUSETTS — Continuing a meaningful tradition of community engagement, student officers at the Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC)-operated academies are participating in holiday drives that bring support and cheer to Massachusetts residents. From toy and coat collections to food donations and volunteer efforts with local nonprofits, student officers are extending their commitment to public service beyond academy walls and into the communities they will soon serve.

“Acts of service, especially during the holiday season reflect the values we expect of all officers who serve the Commonwealth. Our student officers are learning that public safety begins with strong, compassionate community relationships, and these holiday drives are a powerful example of that commitment.” said MPTC Executive Director Colonel Rick Rathbun (Ret.).

“These holiday drives have become a meaningful tradition for our academies. They not only allow student officers to give back, but also help them learn how to work alongside, and support the communities they will serve as sworn officers.” said Deputy Executive Director Captain Amy Fanikos (Ret.)

This year’s holiday initiative highlights the MPTC’s emphasis on community-centered policing and the agencies’ mission to prepare officers who understand the importance of building community trust long before they graduate from the academy.

Student officers from several MPTC academies have organized donation efforts, volunteer time, and partnered with community organizations to deliver essential items during a time when many families face increased need. Examples of these efforts include:

• Plymouth Academy student officers supported an event hosted by the Happy Hope Foundation and assisted with serving dinner, supporting Santa visits, helping with the magical train and viewing of the festival of lights. They also took part in an Angel tree initiative to provide gifts to families in need.
• NECC-Haverhill Academy student officers also participated in two community initiatives. Student officers supported special Olympic athletes and a gift collection that provided toys, grocery cards, and fuel cards for youth and their families at Boys and Girls Clubs within the region.
• Marlborough Academy collected toys for a Stuff a Cruiser event where toys collected will be donated to the local Boys & Girls Club.
• Randolph Academy student officers are collecting coats, toys, and nonperishable foods to support local families during the winter season.

In addition to the academy-led efforts, MPTC staff from all locations participated this season by collecting unwrapped toys to donate during an all-staff training, further expanding the agency’s collective impact on families across the state.

The MPTC’s holiday season initiative continues to grow each year, reflecting the agency’s core values of integrity, service, and community connection. Through this work, student officers gain hands on experience that will carry into their careers as they build trust and relationships with communities.

Many of these drives are conducted in collaboration with community organizations, shelters, food pantries, and youth centers. These partnerships allow student officers to work directly with local leaders and volunteers, gaining exposure to the diverse needs and strengths of different communities.

As the holiday season continues, the MPTC remains committed to fostering a culture of service and community connection that will guide officers long after they enter the field. The MPTC extends its gratitude to all student officers, staff, and community partners whose generosity helped make this holiday season brighter for families.

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