Growth Works, which helps at-risk youth, recently honored area police officers for their efforts.
The Growth Works Juvenile Advisory Council lauded Canton Police for their outstanding work and partnership with youth and families. The late Ofc. Ed Jagst, who was killed in a domestic dispute, was among the officers honored.
Jagst’s widow accepted the award during the Sept. 14 Canton Board of Trustees meeting. “I know he would be honored, as I am,” she said.
State Rep. Ranjeev Puri, D-Canton, presented a proclamation recognizing the work of the township police department during the meeting.
Growth Works handles court referrals of juveniles and two members of the Juvenile Advisory Council spoke to the board of trustees regarding their experiences with the organization.
Also honored by Growth Works were Chad Baugh, director of police services; Lt. Michael Kennedy; Ofc. Andy Colthurst; Ofc. Melissa Andes; Ofc. Ethan Walsh; Ofc. Greg Warnecke and Sgt. Adam Shulman..
Sgt. John Cammarata and Ofc. Owen Keaton, both of the Livonia Police Department were honored for their work along with Ofc. Rodney Donald of Westland who was recognized for his work with young people and their families.
Nick Griswold, Growth Works CEO, said, “Policing adolescents is different, or it needs to be different.” Growth Works was founded in 1971, and also does work in addiction and recovery.
In other business at the Sept. 14 Canton meeting, Renee Glass was introduced as the new embedded social worker with Canton Police.
“My children went to PCEP (Plymouth-Canton Educational Park). I know quite a lot about the community. I've had such a welcome experience,” she said.
Glass has already been on some police calls for service as she has completed her department training.
