The Hollidaysburg Borough Police Department is challenging surrounding departments to spread positivity.

In August the department started a social media “positive initiative,” by posting a photo interacting with the community in the field.

On Friday, Officer Richard Oldham, visited the Dively Family.

He said the meet and greets give kids and parents, an opportunity to get to know the people behind the badge.

“The kids they got Facebook accounts, they watch the news with their parents, they see what’s going on, they see the police as being the bad guy in most cases,” Oldham said.

He said in a time where there are so many officer involved shootings being speculated, it’s important for everyone to remember officers are there for their protection.

Officer Stephen Weyandt said since they started the challenge, he’s noticed kids are less intimidated by them.

Aaron Dively, 8, said he liked meeting Officer Oldham and thought his police car was “awesome.”

“They might just think it’s a regular car that’s black and says police but it isn’t. It has all kinds of cool gadgets,” Aaron said.

After activating the sirens and lights, Annie Dively, Aaron’s mom, said it’s all in good fun, and more importantly, and good reminder.

“The officers are here for safety, for their own safety , for the community’s safety,” Annie said.

She said the sirens may have alarmed surrounding neighbors but,  “I can’t apologize for that, my boys, they love anything that has wheels and noise and lights, so next time we hope you come out and engage with us as well.”