A police association in Rockland is kicking off summer with a sweet idea for the community they serve.

News 12 was there as members of Clarkstown's PBA enforced "Operation Clarkstown Cooldown" at Kings Park in Congers this afternoon.

The officers gave kids little cards that can be redeemed for a free small ice cream cup or cone at either Twist and Shake in New City or Kups & Kones in Valley Cottage.

The goal is to have officers reward kids seen playing outside, build positive relationships with them, and support small businesses because the treats will be paid for by the PBA members.

"We hope our residents receive top notch police service. but then on the other end of it, as a law enforcement agency, when you have a community that appreciates you, it really makes you motivated to do your job. So when we came out with this we figured, these relationships don't happen by accident, so let’s be the catalyst to make that happen. So what better way than to promote kids playing outside and giving away free ice cream," says Clarkstown PBA President Chris Robinson.

News 12 is told "Operation Clarkstown Cooldown" will last all summer.