Security challenges in hospitals and corporations require a proactive approach to be effective. By partnering with communities for better security awareness, healthcare, and corporate organizations can build safer, more alert environments through shared efforts. These partnerships don’t just reinforce a secure perimeter; they create a broader safety network by engaging local organizations, nonprofits, and community leaders. When facilities collaborate with community members, they expand security awareness beyond their own walls. In doing so, they foster a culture of vigilance and mutual support. Collaborative security benefits both institutions and the wider community, transforming security from a facility-centric duty into a shared, community-wide priority.


The Role of Security Awareness in Hospitals and Corporate Environments

Security is critical for protecting people, data, and assets in healthcare and corporate settings. Hospitals face risks ranging from unauthorized data access to physical intrusions, while corporations encounter challenges related to data breaches and employee safety. While internal security protocols are essential, they often remain confined to the organization’s premises. Partnering with the community, however, extends awareness and vigilance to a wider environment.

Through community partnerships, facilities gain a “neighborhood watch” effect, helping everyone remain alert to potential issues. Local residents and business owners, trained in basic security practices, serve as extra eyes and ears for the facility. Community partnerships offer hospitals and corporations advantages like:

These benefits help hospitals and corporations respond more effectively to threats, creating a security framework that reaches beyond facility walls.


Why Local Community Partnerships Enhance Security

Collaborations with local groups provide facilities with a cohesive, proactive security strategy that transcends physical boundaries. Instead of relying only on internal resources, these partnerships leverage the expertise of local organizations, neighborhood associations, and civic groups. Each group brings unique strengths to security initiatives, from insights into neighborhood crime patterns to reliable communication networks for emergencies.

Local partnerships offer key advantages:

By building these relationships, hospitals and corporations develop flexible, informed security systems. Collaborations create a shared commitment to safety and security that benefits the organization and the surrounding community.


Creating Connections with Local Organizations for Mutual Benefit

Establishing relationships with local organizations fosters shared responsibility for security. Nonprofits, volunteer groups, and civic organizations contribute valuable resources and capabilities. For instance, nonprofits often have connections with community leaders, enabling rapid communication of security messages. Volunteer groups provide additional support for events or emergencies.

Key areas for collaboration include:

Collaborations with local organizations enhance facility security while building community rapport. Through these networks, hospitals and corporations establish a strong, community-based shield that serves all parties involved.


Training Community Members in Basic Security Practices

Training community members in security basics equip them to contribute to broader security initiatives, by informing individuals who engage regularly with a facility—whether as visitors, vendors, or nearby residents—facilities add an extra layer of vigilance. Security awareness training, which focuses on identifying and reporting suspicious activity, allows facilities to strengthen their protective measures.

Effective training areas include:

When the community is trained in security practices, everyone is better prepared to support a secure environment. The facility benefits from a more resilient, interconnected security network that actively contributes to safety efforts.


Sharing Resources and Knowledge with Community Partners

Resource sharing strengthens security partnerships by giving local organizations access to tools, educational materials, or training spaces. Hospitals and corporations can also gain from insights provided by community partners, resulting in a mutually beneficial relationship. Effective resource sharing includes technology access and collaboration, which enhance security efforts on both sides.

Examples of resource-sharing initiatives include:

Resource sharing creates a cooperative security environment. Hospitals and corporations enhance their own security efforts while strengthening their community connections, leading to an integrated safety network.


Building Trust with the Community for Proactive Security

Trust is foundational for successful security partnerships. Hospitals and corporations that have earned community trust see increased cooperation and support on security matters. Building trust requires open communication and transparency, both of which demonstrate that the facility values community safety.

Steps for building trust include:

Trust between the facility and the community promotes a collaborative approach to security. This shared responsibility creates a ripple effect as community members feel invested in maintaining a safe environment.


Collaborative Security Programs and Community-Led Initiatives

Programs that involve both organizations and the community encourage mutual accountability for security. Initiatives like neighborhood watch programs, monthly workshops, and youth engagement create regular opportunities for community involvement and education. This engagement empowers the community to take an active role in security.

Examples of collaborative initiatives include:

Collaborative initiatives give hospitals and corporations a way to strengthen security while reinforcing community trust. Security becomes a shared mission, making everyone feel responsible for maintaining a safe environment.


Measuring the Impact of Community Partnerships on Security

Evaluating community partnerships ensures they effectively contribute to security. Metrics such as incident response times, frequency of reported suspicious activity, and community feedback provide insight into the partnership’s success. Regular assessment and feedback allow facilities to refine their strategies and optimize their impact.

Suggested metrics for tracking impact include:

Tracking these metrics allows hospitals and corporations to adjust strategies as needed, ensuring that partnerships continue to offer strong security benefits.


The Long-Term Value of Community Engagement in Security Awareness

Partnering with communities for better security awareness offers hospitals and corporations a forward-thinking approach to safety. Establishing connections with local organizations, training community members, and creating joint initiatives transforms security into a shared responsibility. This approach protects facilities while strengthening community bonds. As security becomes a collaborative effort, everyone benefits from a safer, more resilient environment.

Phil Kline

Regional Manager – Baltimore Metro Region

Phil’s career began in the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a Military Police Officer. His training as an Internal Response Unit member equipped him with essential skills in safety, security, and crisis management. One of his most fulfilling experiences was responding to Hurricane Sandy, where he played a vital role in assisting those affected by the disaster.

Following his military service, Phil transitioned to the building supply industry, where he spent a decade as an Operations and Sales Manager. During this time, he honed his leadership, process improvement, and industry analysis skills. His passion for identifying opportunities and driving positive change has been a constant throughout his career.

With a strong foundation in problem-solving and a resilient mindset, Phil is dedicated to applying his expertise to create impactful solutions. Whether leading teams, optimizing processes, or tackling complex challenges, he approaches every task with integrity and a focus on results.

Outside of work, Phil is an avid motorcyclist and enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, and camping. One of his most memorable adventures was conquering the challenging hike to the top of Angels Landing in Zion National Park, Utah.

Walter Leslie Jr.

Operations Manager

Walter is an observant and vigilant, safety-driven security professional with 14+ years of leadership experience across commercial, residential, and corporate security sectors. Walter offers extensive expertise in developing and executing comprehensive physical security procedures and protocols. Specializing in risk assessments, he has successfully implemented mitigation strategies for clients, reducing potential security threats.

Outside of work, he is family-oriented and enjoys traveling with his wife Jackie, and their dog Aries. He is an avid sports enthusiast and loves the Washington Commanders and Washington Nationals.

Cynthia Cox

Human Resources Manager

With 21 years of management experience across various industries, including staffing, transportation, small business ownership, accounting, and operations, Cynthia brings a wealth of knowledge and a robust skill set to Defender One. Her diversified background has equipped her with a keen understanding of multiple business domains, making her an invaluable asset to the team.

Matthew Goodman

Assistant Director of Operations
Matt currently serves as Defender One’s Assistant Director of Operations. Matt is responsible for the day-to-day operations of Defender One and works closely with the Director of Operations & Training to implement goals and objectives for the company. As a nationally certified School Resource Officer and Force Science Analyst, Matt brings an interpersonal and holistic approach to the industry. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from York College. Outside of work, Matt is an avid outdoorsmen, spending time perfecting his landscaping skills. Matt also enjoys quality time with his wife Ashley, and two cats, Ollie and Leo, as well as watching the Baltimore Orioles and Ravens.

Jennifer Krieger

Director of Human Resources
Jen currently serves as Defender One’s Director of Human Resources, managing our HR and back end finance teams. Jen has 30 years of experience in healthcare benefits administration, retirement benefits, financial planning and human resources. Jen holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from the University of Maryland, College Park and a Master’s Degree in Finance from Loyola University. Jen prioritizes an employee focused and driven company, with an emphasis on client and employee satisfaction. Outside of work, Jen enjoys running, watching her daughter play Division 1 Lacrosse, and playing with her grand-dogs.

Jared Krieger

Director of Operations & Training

Jared serves as the Director of Operations & Training at Defender One, where he oversees the company’s operations and staff training programs. He holds a Master of Science in Homeland Security & Disaster Management and a Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security & Counterterrorism. He is a Certified Security Project Manager and is board-certified in security management. He is also board-certified as a Physical Security Professional by the American Society of Industrial Security. As an accredited law enforcement instructor, Jared specializes in multiple disciplines, including Firearms, OC Spray, Expandable Baton, Handcuff Techniques, Taser, Defensive Tactics, and Force Science Analytics.

Outside of work, Jared enjoys traveling and spending time with his girlfriend and their three dogs.

Jon Krieger

Owner
Jon is the President and Founder of Defender One. Jon started Defender One in 2009, with the goal of bridging the gap between conventional security guards and law enforcement. Jon had a long and distinguished career in a large metropolitan police department for over 30 years, holding supervisory positions in several units, including patrol, internal affairs, traffic and community outreach. Jon has a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Maryland, College Park. Outside of work, Jon spends his time spoiling his grand-dogs Fred and Barney, supporting the Ravens and Orioles, and watching his daughter play Division 1 Lacrosse.