Coffee With a Cop Brings Community Together at Silverton Bake Shop

A Silverton Police car parked across from Silverton Bake Shop. -Photo by Derek Bratton

SILVERTON, Ore. — Silverton Bake Shop recently transformed into a warm gathering spot for “Coffee With a Cop,” an event hosted in partnership with the Silverton Police Department. The morning brought together local residents and officers for a shared experience of coffee, pastries and open conversation, creating a bridge between the community and law enforcement.

The event is part of a national initiative to strengthen community-police relationships, offering a relaxed setting for attendees to connect with Silverton police officers. “Coffee With a Cop” began in 2011 in Hawthorne, California, when officers sought to improve interactions with residents through casual conversations in neutral settings like coffee shops. The program, which has no formal agendas or speeches, quickly grew, reaching all 50 states by 2016. It aims to build trust by encouraging dialogue outside of crisis situations.

Beth Lau and Theo pose with Silverton PD's Chief Todd Engstrom and Officer Sam Willits

"It lets the community know, we are human too. We are willing to talk to them about anything and break that boundary of ‘they have a gun, they have a badge." - Officer Sam Willits

At Silverton Bake Shop, the bakery’s cozy atmosphere, filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods, set the perfect tone. Guests sipped on complimentary coffee and nibbled on an array of treats, from flaky croissants to classic donuts, while engaging in discussions that ranged from neighborhood safety concerns to lighthearted chats about the officers’ favorite menu items. The informal setting allowed residents to see the human side of the officers who serve their town, fostering a sense of mutual understanding.

Officer Sam Willits of the Silverton Police Department captured the essence of the event, saying, “It lets the community know, we are human too. We are willing to talk to them about anything and break that boundary of ‘they have a gun, they have a badge.’” His words underscored the initiative’s goal of building trust and dismantling preconceived notions, making the police more approachable to the people they protect.

The event was a refreshing opportunity to engage with law enforcement in a positive, non-confrontational way. The bakery buzzed with conversation as residents shared their thoughts and officers listened attentively, creating a dialogue that felt both meaningful and genuine. Silverton Bake Shop, a beloved local staple, was thrilled to host the gathering, emphasizing their commitment to fostering community engagement. The event highlighted the power of simple gestures — like sharing a cup of coffee — in strengthening the bonds within a community.

It was nice chatting with Officer Sam Willits. I took video but the sound quality was really bad, but it was nice to meet those who are sworn to "Serve and Protect." As always, I enjoy the conversation, feel free to follow Derek2Earth on Facebook.