A sense of faith and hope comes from many places — from family and upbringing, from church and leaders of faith and even from within.

Community leaders also play a pivotal role in instilling a sense of hope, faith and values in the areas they serve.

We are challenged by the numbers of our youth being locked up, the lack of community within some neighborhoods and some general feelings of hopelessness.

The level of faith and action shown by our community leaders makes a big difference.

Dayton police Chief Richard Biehl believes emphatically in fighting crime and living in the present by being engaged in the community. He has worked his way up the ranks within law enforcement, with more than 30 years of service and dedication. He has been leader of Dayton’s police department for more than four years.

Among his goals for leading the department are to strengthen relationships with the community and further develop community partnerships to support areas hit hard by crime.

“I believe there’s a real need for a sense of community,” Biehl said. “That’s defined through us as a community being more connected, engaged and caring — and getting outside of our comfort zones.”

I had the chance to talk with Chief Biehl and asked him to share his ideas for fostering a shared sense of hope.

Q How can you encourage stronger feelings of hope through community engagement?

A My hope in moving forward is by attending community outreaches and neighborhood meetings. Everyone has a part, a mutual accountability. It’s what we can do — must do — to improve and increase our safety within our communities. The result is having interdependence with the department and citizens of Dayton. We have a responsibility to one another.

Q Can you give us an example of how communities can instill a sense of hope?

A There was a hate crime committed out west. They sprayed painted graffiti all over this home. The police station was called. In turn, the police department called local painters to see what anyone could or would do. In a short amount of time, this home was repainted from the bottom to the top. One of the painters said all of his life he wanted to help. This inspiring story defines a team within a city through connection, being engaged and caring for their community.

Q What’s coming up within Dayton to equip citizens with the tools and skills needed to help in the safety of the community?

A On May 19, at Ponitz Career Center in Dayton, the Miami Valley Community Problem Oriented Policing (mvcpop.com) conference will host another full day of training. We will illustrate how to be proactive through city cleanups, block parties and finding and helping those in need. Many of our youth desire to help and make a difference. At this conference, many youth will also be there in attendance. The idea is to engage more of our youth to show compassion for the city and neighborhoods they live in.

Q What words of encouragement and hope do you have for citizens about the future health and safety of our community?

A It’s our human history that our future will be defined by the decisions we make. There’s no more sitting back on automatic pilot. We must let go of the past. We are to make a daily conscious effort to become engaged in the present.

Tonya Lee Carrie Fancher, an advocate for disconnected youth and motivational speaker, can be reached at tonyaleecarriefancher@gmail.com.