The San Diego Police Department played host in the third annual San Diego Unity Games, pitting community organizations against law enforcement for a friendly game of softball.
The games, which were more about creating a community dialogue and friendship than competition, took place at the Willie Henderson Sports Complex on 45th Street Saturday.
“What it does for the kids is says ‘look it’s okay to talk to police,’” Reginald Washington, CEO of Project Aware Enterprises, an organization that educates at-risk youth to become community leaders. “You don’t see that you are going to be disrespected you don’t see yourself being outcast. Look I’m an individual who has worked in the community and was involved with gangs, and for me to be here working with them and with you, it’s the bridge we need.”
San Diego Police Chief Shelly Zimmerman took to the pitcher's mound to throw out the ceremonial first pitch in the game.
