Note: From the Grant County Sheriff’s Office; Photo courtesy of Grant County Sheriff’s Office
Grant County youth are soon to get a whole lot smarter about staying safe — and have a great time doing it.
This September, Grant County Sheriff’s Office Reserve Deputy Diana Larkin is rolling out her school-based student groups as a community wide program. Deputy Larkin, more commonly known as “Deputy D,” to her former students during her tenure as a School Resource Officer at Sheridan Schools and throughout the community.
Deputy D was a full-time deputy with GCSO for a little over three years serving as an SRO at Sheridan Schools during that time where she began the Danger Dodgers program. She now serves as Program Manager for Arkansas Center for School Safety and remains with GCSO as a Reserve Deputy continuing to serve her community.
Deputy D’s not-for-profit youth safety programs are designed to give local students hands-on knowledge from the very people who protect our community every day. Open to public, private, and home-schooled students alike, the programs split into two age groups: Deputy D's Danger Dodgers for 2nd through 5th graders, and The Safety Society for 6th through 12th graders.
"I am so excited for the students and our community," said Deputy Larkin, whose passion for youth safety and mentorship is the driving force behind the new initiative.
What to Expect
Meetings kick off Tuesday, Sept. 15, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Sheridan Recreational Center with monthly sessions to follow throughout the school year.
Each meeting brings in professionals from law enforcement and other first-
responder agencies to talk with students about the tools and training that keep Grant County safe — think drone pilots, K9 tracking handlers, and medical emergency responders, along with plenty of other topics kids will
genuinely want to hear about and can actually use in everyday life.
Best of all, the program is completely free for students. Meetings aren't mandatory, but participation is highly encouraged — because this isn't just another after-school obligation.
“It's a chance for kids to meet real-life heroes, ask questions, and pick up skills that could one day make a real difference,” Deputy D said.
More Than Just Meetings
The Danger Dodgers and The Safety Society won't just be learning — they'll be giving back. Members will roll up their sleeves for several community outreach events throughout the fall and winter, including:
● A Toy Run, Christmas Pageant, and Chili Cook-Off on Nov. 21, fundraisers to benefit children in Grant County during Christmas
● The Sheridan Christmas Parade on Dec. 5
● And the year's biggest project: teaming up with local law enforcement to shop for Grant County kids in need this Christmas
“It's a wonderful full-circle moment — students who spend the year learning how their community keeps them safe will turn around and help make sure every child in Grant County has a happy holiday season,” Deputy D explained.
How to Get Involved
Spots are open now for students in either age group, and enrolling is easy.
Parents interested in signing their student up, or wanting more information, can:
● Text Deputy Larkin at 501-951-2654
● Email her at [email protected]
With hands-on learning, real community involvement, and a whole lot of heart behind it, Deputy D's Danger Dodgers and The Safety Society are shaping up to be two of the best things happening for Grant County youth this
year.
Don't miss the first meeting on Sept. 15 — sign your student up today!