Members of the public welcome to enjoy family-friendly festivities
Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt A. Hoffman is inviting the public to the Sheriff’s Office’s Fifth Annual Open House, which will be held on Saturday, Dec. 9, from 2 to 6 p.m.
Residents of the community are invited to visit the Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) Headquarters on Cattleridge Boulevard in Sarasota “to enjoy a free, family-friendly event with food, music, demonstrations, and giveaways,” a news release says. Members of the agency’s SWAT, Corrections Emergency Response Team, Mounted Patrol, K-9, and Aviation units, among others, will display their equipment, offering attendees an inside look at what they do,” the release points out.
Further, the agency’s Human Resources staff will provide information about career opportunities, the release notes, and the agency’s Animal Services Section will have adoptable animals available.
“Santa Claus will also fly in for a visit,” the release adds.
The annual open house coincides with the agency’s Seventh Annual Holiday Toy Drive, which will benefit the 12th Judicial Circuit of Florida’s Guardian ad Litem program, Teen Court of Sarasota, and the All Star Children’s Foundation, the release also points out. The first 500 people to donate a new, unwrapped toy or gift card during the event will receive a free Sheriff’s Office T-shirt, the release says. “Clothing and stuffed animals will not be accepted,” the release points out. “T-shirts are limited to one per person per donated gift.”
“This celebration gives us a chance to welcome the community to our headquarters,” said Sheriff Hoffman in the release. “It’s a fun, family-friendly afternoon where we come together to share the joy of the season, our beautiful county, and the people that comprise it!”
“We’re excited to continue this tradition for our community!” Community Affairs Director Evan Keats added in the release. “The members of the Sheriff’s Office look forward to this wonderful event all year — showcasing our resources and personnel. It’s a great opportunity to meet those we are so very fortunate to serve,” Keats said in the release.
The Sheriff’s Office headquarters is located at 6010 Cattleridge Blvd. in Sarasota. “Parking is limited, so attendees are encouraged to carpool, if possible,” the release notes. Sponsorship opportunities are available, it adds.
For more information, contact the agency’s Community Affairs Office at 941-861-4005.