"A man has been stealing police car tires in our community. The police department is working tirelessly to catch him."

This is the kind of humor you might find on the Facebook page of the Pottsville, Arkansas, police department. Their use of humor has gained this small town (population 1,200) positive press from all over the world and attracted more than 14,000 followers to their Facebook community. But it's not just fun and games. Their deliberate use of humor has helped their community manage the stress of the pandemic, humanized their police department, made them more approachable, improved their recruitment efforts, and even helped them solve crimes peacefully.

Their Facebook page includes photos of officers holding hands with members of the fire department while playing Ring Around the Rosie. Another photo shows officers playfully tossing donuts into the air. 

Never underestimate the power of humor, even in what might be considered "serious" organizations, as an effective means of shattering stereotypes, humanizing your brand, and connecting with your community.  Whether it's outrageous photos, fun videos, or creative top 10-lists, a little humor can be very arresting. (Sorry, police don't throw me in jail - the crime wouldn't fit the punishment. Get it? See what I did there? PUNishment. I just can't help myself. Ask my wife, she's tried.)