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A $125,000 grant to the Community College of Rhode Island has launched a law enforcement workforce development program. “Fit2Serve” responds to the growing workforce shortages and recruitment challenges facing police departments across the state, particularly identifying candidates who have lived community sensitivities.

Soon the first graduates may be patrolling the streets as full-fledged police officers.

“Investing in initiatives that create meaningful career pathways promotes the type of economic mobility that can change the lives of the graduates and their families forever. Beyond that, Fit2Serv creates a pipeline of qualified candidates who are especially attuned to the communities they will serve,” said David N. Cicilline, the Foundation’s president and CEO.

The intensive, eight-week academy preparation program required multi-day training focused on physical conditioning, defensive tactics, swim readiness, firearms safety education, written and oral board examination preparation, nutrition coaching, and mentorship from experienced law enforcement and fitness professionals.

“CCRI is proud to launch Fit2Serve as part of our commitment to building workforce programs that directly respond to the needs of Rhode Island’s communities and employers,” said CCRI President Rosemary A. Costigan, Ph.D., RN. “Law enforcement agencies across our state are facing significant recruitment challenges, and this program creates a strong pipeline of prepared, disciplined, and community-minded individuals ready to serve.”

The Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association also played a vital role in supporting the development of the initiative, ensuring the curriculum aligns with the evolving needs of the state's police departments.

“The Fit2Serve Pathway to Policing Program is an outstanding opportunity for individuals who are interested in a career in law enforcement to gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed,” said former Little Compton Police Chief Sidney Wordell, who is now the association’s executive director. “By removing financial barriers and providing structured preparation, this program helps build a stronger and more diverse pipeline of future police officers for Rhode Island communities.”

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. Through civic leadership, fundraising and grantmaking activities, together with partners and neighbors, the Foundation is helping to create progress that lasts.