While they take their jobs seriously, Fulton police are also planning upcoming events that will put them in touch with the community in a fun way.
At 6 p.m.Oct. 28, police officers will join the Fulton Jaycees to host Trunk or Treat at the Jaycees fairgrounds. The gate fee is $1, and all money will help provide funds for Shop With a Hero, according to Sgt. Joe Schramm.
"We've been doing Trunk or Treat for around six years now," he said. "Last year, we raised about $1,000."
The annual shopping event includes law enforcement and ambulance crews from throughout Callaway County, who join together and give underprivileged children a chance to to buy holiday gifts for their families at Shop With a Hero.
Trunk or Treat welcomes businesses, families and individuals to get involved. They can set up a trunk or a table with candy, games and promotional items for the Oct. 28 event. For more information, contact Caitlin McGrath at 573-590-0139 or Schramm at the police department, 573-592-3100.
Police are also inviting first responders in Callaway County to join them again for "No Shave November," according to officer Adam Cramer. He said proceeds for this month-long event will be donated to the Super Sam Foundation to help find a cure for pediatric cancer and offer comfort and support for families of sick children.
All first responders willing to grow out their beards - normally against many departments' policies - can donate $20.
"It's kind of fun," he said. "Anyone can donate at the front desk of the Fulton Police Department."
Other police agencies with no-beard policies, such as Holts Summit and Auxvasse, also have officers who get involved in this fundraising effort, Cramer added. Firefighters typically don't shave so a breathing apparatus fits correctly.
Shop With a Hero will be Dec. 16 at Walmart. About 30 kids from Fulton - and 50-60 children total including those from throughout Callaway County - will meet at early that morning at the Fulton Police Department parking lot and ride in first-responder vehicles to the store. Each child, Schramm said, will receive about $100 with which to shop.
"We like to usually get about $3,000 a year," Schramm said, adding other donated funds come from church groups, businesses, individuals and local banks.