When Aaron Smith had a stroke last spring, his guardian Beth Hatcher was by his side at the hospital.

It was a very difficult time for Aaron with many unanswered questions. But she and Aaron reflect back on that time with joy and gratitude.

Shortly before the stroke, Aaron had graduated from the Licking County Sheriff’s Office’s Citizen’s Academy.

It was a huge accomplishment for Aaron who has always wanted to be a police officer and learn everything he could about law enforcement. But they had no idea how much Aaron’s participation had impacted all the LCSO staff that he met — until they all showed up at the hospital.

There were so many deputies there to see Aaron that the nurses had to limit the number of visitors so he could rest.

Photos from those hospital visits — and his Citizen’s Academy graduation — are some of his most prized possessions.

Although he is still recovering from his stroke, Aaron has a new mission, to give back to his heroes as a volunteer for the Citizen’s Academy Alumni Association.

“It’s a wonderful group and he has totally found the place he belongs” Beth said. “Everyone is so supportive, I couldn’t ask for better people.”

Aaron’s interest in local government and law enforcement started when he was young. But he began making new connections five years ago, when Beth started organizing birthday parades for him at the end of March. Local police and fire departments would join, as well as LCSO.  Over the years, Aaron got to know some of the officers, including Community Relations Deputy Connor Shook and Community Safety Deputy Brad May who started taking him out to breakfast for his birthday.  They told Beth about the Citizens Academy and suggested Aaron check it out.

The Citizen’s Academy is a free program that educates county residents about different aspects of law enforcement as well as the different divisions of LCSO. 

Aaron participated in almost every session of the program. He was especially excited to learn about the SWAT Team. 

Brad and Connor were especially proud watching Aaron step out of his comfort zone throughout the sessions. Even when he had to climb stairs or do other physically demanding tasks, he was motivated by the deputies and didn’t give up. 

“It really opened our eyes to be able to help (him) out and help him be a part of it,” Connor said.

After graduation, Aaron transitioned into the Citizen’s Academy Alumni Association. Once he was able, he began volunteering at local events such as the Lite the Night Car Show and the Hartford Independent Fair.

Aaron often greets people who come up to their table and helps hand out giveaways and information about LCSO and its programs. 

“I’m nice to people,” he said.

Although he often gives his deputy friends a hard time about being late, they like to tell jokes and be goofy when they are together.  His friendly nature and welcoming attitude make him a great Alumni Association member.

“Our volunteers help bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community,” Brad said. “When they see a smiling face, people are more likely to come up and talk with us.”

Several weeks ago, Aaron was invited to accompany Connor to the Ohio State House to help place flags on its lawn to honor those lost on Sept. 11, 2001.

Aaron was moved by the ceremony but his favorite part was riding in the cruiser with Connor. 

“I’m just so grateful that he was included,” Beth said.

Brad and Connor have become true friends, showing up for big moments in Aaron’s life and dropping by for visits.

“They’ve just become people we can lean on, and it’s very appreciated,” she said.

The LCSO typically does Citizens Academy sessions in the fall and both Brad and Connor said they hope Aaron’s success will inspire more people with disabilities to participate, and graduate, from the program. 

Anyone interested in the next Academy can contact Deputy Connor Shook at 740-670-5592 or cshook@lickingcounty.gov.  An application could also be found by clicking here.