Colonie police gear up to wash cars for a good cause

Colonie police have been out this summer with a focus on community engagement.

You might have noticed officers handing out ice cream, and getting a lot of smiles in return.

Wednesday, they’re holding a car wash from 9am to 1pm at the Shaker Road-Loudonville Fire Department on Albany Shaker Road.

It’s free. They’re just asking for donations to the American Cancer Society.

“Myself and a couple officers from the unit will be doing the car wash, so please bear with us,” said Colonie Police Sergeant Anthony Sidoti, with a laugh.

Sergeant Sidoti is with the Community Services Division.

“We’re taking community engagement very seriously at the Colonie Police Department,” he said. “We have a fantastic unit. We’ve been partnering with the American Cancer Society, Coffee with a Cop, kickball with the kids. We hosted ice cream at Kurver Kreme last week, so we’re really trying to engage our community in every way we can.”

They also had a pop-up cookout at a senior community.

All they’re doing has been noticed.

“We’ve had a great response from the community. If you look on our Facebook page, there’s a ton of positive feedback, and people are really liking what we’re doing,” said Sergeant Sidoti.

Wednesday, people can get a car wash, or just drop by to donate.

It’s another way to build relationships.

“Because we’re part of the community and we care. We want to be part of the fabric of the town of Colonie and engage our people in a positive and healthy way.”