In Episode 21 of Sheriff Fortney’s podcast, he invited all local faith leaders in Snohomish County to discuss community during National Faith and Blue Month in October. National Faith and Blue facilitates safer and stronger communities by engaging law enforcement officers and local residents through the connections of faith-based organizations. Pastor Jeff Knight with The Rock Church reached out interested in sharing their story of community outreach in Lake Stevens over the summer. Together, their efforts helped combat some poor behaviors and decision making by juveniles hanging out in the community. Youth Pastor Plamen picked up 40 pizzas, yard games and drove to the park to begin building community connections with local students who had previously been fighting and causing disturbances at the park. The podcast begins with Plamen’s inspiring story about being raised in an orphanage, how he gained hope through his faith, and came to the United States. Pastor Jeff Knight shares his personal story about losing both his parents 23 years ago in the tragic Alaska Airlines crash, Flight 261. His entire world changed in a moment and he shares how the community around him helped get him through each day following the worst day of his life.

At the 38-minute mark, they share their work of bringing our youth together in Lake Stevens through community partnerships! #NationalFaithandBlue