Parker's Posse is a collaboration between the Fresno Grizzlies, the Fresno County Sheriff's Office and the County Department of Public Health. The program is intended to strengthen law enforcement relationships and promote health and wellness in area schools.

Parker's Posse Deputies - 500 students from eight Fresno County elementary schools, many of whom have never been to a Grizzlies game - will join Fresno County Supervisor, Sal Quintero, Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims, and Grizzlies mascot, Parker, on the field for special pre-game festivities to "swear in" the deputies and kick off the season-long program.

"This is a very exciting program for us to be a part of," says Supervisor Quintero. "But most importantly, it's something the students are excited about and engaged with. This will not only help to educate them in how to help make their communities safer and healthier, but it makes them active partners in doing just that.

The primary goal of the Parker's Posse program is twofold: engage with elementary students in the rural and unincorporated areas of Fresno County, familiarize them with law enforcement in their area and strengthen community relationships. At the same time, the program aims to discourage smoking/vaping in our communities and help to improve public health.

"Building a comfort level between children and our deputies is a critical part to building trust in the communities that we serve," says Sheriff Mims. "Parker's Posse is a great way to get kids engaged, build strong relationships, and it empowers our youth to be our partners in helping to make our communities safer."

Prior to Saturday's game, Sheriff Mims will swear in Grizzlies mascot, Parker T. Bear, and partner students as Honorary Fresno County Sheriffs. Each member of Parker's Posse will receive a special badge along with a team set of Parker's Posse baseball cards depicting members of the Grizzlies team, Sheriff's Office, and other partners in this special program.