DC Calls: Bowser Administration Launches New Campaign to Build Pipeline of Talent for Careers in Public Safety and Justice

(Washington, DC) -Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser and Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice Lindsey Appiah launched DC Calls, a new public safety recruitment campaign designed to build a pipeline of talent for several of the District's public safety and justice agencies. The campaign highlights career opportunities within the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department (FEMS), and DC Department of Corrections (DOC) by sharing the stories and experiences of public safety professionals who have chosen careers in service to the District.

As public safety agencies across the country compete for qualified candidates, the District is investing in innovative recruitment strategies to showcase the purpose, impact, and opportunities available through careers in public safety. Through authentic employee stories from those working at MPD, FEMS, and DOC, DC Calls aims to inspire the next generation of public servants to explore careers that strengthen communities and improve lives.

"Our most critical assets in keeping the District safe are the thousands of skilled, committed public safety professionals in the Public Safety and Justice cluster agencies, and ensuring we maintain a strong pipeline of dedicated professionals to continue to answer the call to public safety service is essential to building safer, stronger neighborhoods across our city," said Deputy Mayor Appiah. "DC Calls is about raising awareness of the many ways to serve, expanding access to information about public safety careers, and helping talented individuals see how they can make a difference in the District."

The DC Calls campaign will initially focus on increasing awareness of career opportunities for police officers, firefighter/paramedics, and corrections officers. By highlighting the people behind these professions and the impact they have on the District, the campaign seeks to connect interested candidates with rewarding careers in public service.

DC Calls, the District's first comprehensive public safety recruitment campaign, will include digital advertising on social media platforms, video and audio advertisements on streaming services, and billboard placements throughout the region. The campaign will direct prospective applicants to dccalls.dc.gov, where they can learn about career pathways, connect with recruiters, and explore the skills, qualifications, and experiences associated with careers in public safety.

The Bowser Administration has also invested in building a pipeline of public safety careers through the expansion of cadet programs at MPD and FEMS as well as the creation of the Junior Academy at the Office of Unified Communications. Additionally, Mayor Bowser funded recruitment and retention initiatives across the public safety and justice cluster agencies as well as created programs to enhance the skills of current employees such as the launch of the paramedic program at the University of the District of Columbia.

What the District's public safety leaders are saying about DC Calls:

"Every day, MPD officers have the opportunity to make a direct impact in the lives of District residents," said MPD Interim Chief of Police Jeffery W. Carroll. "Whether building relationships in our neighborhoods, responding to emergencies, or helping keep our communities safe, policing is a career rooted in service and purpose. Through DC Calls, we hope to connect with individuals who are committed to making a difference and are ready to answer that call to serve."

"Our firefighter EMTs and firefighter paramedics are there for residents during some of life's most critical moments," said FEMS Chief John A. Donnelly, Sr. "It takes dedication, compassion, and a commitment to teamwork to serve in these roles. DC Calls gives us an opportunity to share the rewarding career paths available and inspire the next generation of public safety professionals."

"Corrections professionals play a vital role in public safety, rehabilitation, and preparing individuals for successful reentry into our communities," said Thomas Faust, DOC Director. "The work is challenging, meaningful, and essential to the District's justice system. Through DC Calls, we are excited to introduce more people to careers that offer purpose, professional growth, and the opportunity to serve."

Residents and prospective applicants interested in exploring career opportunities can visit dccalls.dc.gov and follow DC Calls on Instagram and Facebook.

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