We kick off 2021 with a conversation between our hosts and two veteran members of the School Safety Division, School Safety Agent Price and Sergeant Harper, alumni of New York City Public Schools themselves. Among other topics, they discuss the role of the School Safety Division and the implications of removing it from the NYPD.

This past Thanksgiving, Options.nyc students delivered hundreds of holiday meals to community members across the five boroughs. In this episode, they describe the unique experience of meeting face to face with New York's diverse citizens, and how, for them, the event was about giving back to the people who make the city what it is.

In three years, Options.nyc has transformed into a citywide learning program for young New Yorkers. In this episode, our host John — one of the original Options participants — talks with Detective Jason Anazagasty and Sergeant Charles Harper about the program's early days, and how Options adapted to the pandemic by pivoting to remote learning sessions.

Our hosts interview a fellow Options Communications team member about the role of social media in providing news and information, as well as disinformation. Learn tips on how to vet sources and curate your social media feed.

Our hosts interview Police Officer Mangual, who serves his community in two distinct ways. By day, he works as a patrol cop in the South Bronx. In his off-duty hours, he serves as a pastor to a church community. In this episode, Officer Mangual discusses why he became a New York City police officer, and how he applies the same skill to both jobs: listening to people with "the third ear."

Our hosts provide an insider's perspective on the Options.nyc program. Options was developed by the NYPD and the New York City Police Foundation to provide young people with decision-making skills, a voice in their community, and career development opportunities by using various mediums, including virtual reality, to instill emotional intelligence.

It’s important that all New Yorkers — especially young people — know and understand their rights during any kind of encounter with the police.

Why should you be wearing a mask and practicing social distancing? Opt In NYC producers Tara, Zoe, and Sabrina talk to medical professionals who work on the front lines at local hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City.

In the premiere episode, two young New Yorkers interview NYPD Police Officer Rosen about policing during the pandemic, recent protests in New York City, and calls to defund the police. This interview took place on August 24, 2020. For more information, visit options.nyc. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram @Options.nyc

Welcome to Opt In NYC, a podcast produced by young New Yorkers in conjunction with the New York City Police Department and Police Foundation. In season one, we talk about the issues facing our communities and share stories about New York City neighborhoods.