The Hispanic Police Officers Association of Michigan (HPOAM) is thrilled to announce the introduction of Youth Enhancement Sports (Y.E.S.) mini-grants, aimed at assisting families in Southwest Detroit. In partnership with the Gordie Howe Bridge Community Benefits Program, these grants are designed to help children aged 7 to 16 who wish to participate in organized sports but may face financial barriers such as registration fees, equipment, uniforms, and travel costs.
The Y.E.S. mini-grants provide up to $100 for individual youth athletes, which must be applied for through their parents or legal guardians. Additionally, team sports grants of up to $300 are available for eligible youth teams in Southwest Detroit. Recognizing the high costs associated with sports, these grants aim to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder young athletes from participating.
“Playing sports provides youth with valuable life skills, keeps them engaged, and promotes physical health,” said Commander John Serda, retired from the Detroit Police Department and immediate past president of the HPOAM. “We are grateful to the Gordie Howe Bridge Community Benefits Program for their generous support in funding this project for both the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 periods.”
To be eligible, individual youth must reside in Southwest Detroit (zip codes 48209, 48210, 48217, and 48216), be aged 7-16, and participate in organized sports based in the area. Applications are subject to review by the HPOAM President and designated representatives and are available on the HPOAM Facebook page and website www.HPOAM.com. Grants will be available from July 1, 2024, until June 30, 2025, or until funds are exhausted.
About the Hispanic Police Officers Association of Michigan
The Hispanic Police Officers Association of Michigan has been a cornerstone of the community for over 30 years. Founded by notable community members such as Manual Pompa and Robert Ayala, the organization was then revitalized in 1994 by Police Officer Javier Chapa and then-Sergeant John Serda who has been a long-time President and Co-founder who retired as Commander from the Detroit Police Department and now serves as Deputy Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management for Wayne County.
HPOAM advocates for greater representation of Hispanic officers in law enforcement and aims to strengthen ties between the Hispanic community and law enforcement.
“HPOAM strives to ensure that the community sees us as integral members,” said a spokesperson. “We are here to serve our community through youth activities, scholarships, and community participation, we aim to build trust and provide opportunities for the youth in Southwest Detroit.”
HPOAM is also a charter member of the National Latino Peace Officers Association (NLPOA), participating in their annual training conferences to share best practices in law enforcement.
HPOAM Leadership Changes
HPOAM recently elected a new President, NPO (Neighborhood Police Officer) David Vazquez, who brings extensive experience, dedication to the role and passion for the Southwest Detroit community. NPO Vazquez made the following statement about his new leadership role in HPOAM:
I am thrilled and deeply honored to have been elected as the President of the Hispanic Police Officers Association of Michigan. It is with immense gratitude that I accept this role, and I am humbled by the trust and confidence you have placed in me.
As President, my mission is clear: to uphold the values of the Hispanic Police Officers Association, to strengthen our bonds within the community, and to ensure that our organization continues to grow and thrive. Together, we will work tirelessly to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within law enforcement and beyond.
I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to collaborating with each and every one of you. Let’s embark on this journey together, united in our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve.
Thank you again for this incredible honor. Together, we will make a lasting impact and build a brighter future for all.
On another note, our long time President and Co-founder, John Serda, retired from the Detroit Police Department in March 2023. He couldn’t stay still for long and has recently been appointed to Deputy Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management for Wayne County. Kudos to Wayne County Executive Warren Evans, Deputy County Executive Assad Turfe, and Director Samer Jaafar for continuing to recognize the value of diversity in Wayne County Government.
Supporting HPOAM
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, HPOAM welcomes community support. They can be reached at 9315 W. Fort Street, Detroit, MI 48210, via their website HPOAM.com, or through their Facebook page, Hispanic Police Officers Association of Michigan.
