A Commitment to Service: Rolandis Woodland
For one Atlanta Police Officer, the decision to serve wasn’t just a career choice—it was personal. Inspired by the people around him, Rolandis saw law enforcement as a path to help others every single day.
“My community inspired me to become a police officer,” he said. “I just loved helping people and giving back. I knew that being a police officer would give me the opportunity to do these things every day.”
Before joining the force, Officer Woodland pursued a career in football. But in 2017, his journey shifted to law enforcement, beginning in St. Louis, Missouri. The road was long and often difficult, but his drive to serve kept him moving forward. Today, as an officer in Atlanta, Rolandis finds purpose in small, meaningful moments of connection—like a family offering him cookies in a Buckhead parking lot, simply to say thank you. “Those are the things you don’t take for granted.” That sense of community deepened when he recently joined the Livable Buckhead First Responder Housing Program, which helps officers live in the neighborhoods they serve.
“It was a good way to give back to the community,” he explained. “Receiving help has definitely impacted me in a grateful way.” Living in Buckhead has helped him build routine and community connection. “I love Buckhead. While jogging in Chastain Park, I hear ‘Thank you for your service,’ and it really means something. The community is the best.”
He believes showing up—literally—makes a difference. “I often patrol and stop by local businesses so they can see and feel my presence in a positive way. Just letting them know I’m here if they need me.” Officer Woodland also volunteers for extra community involvement, like patrolling PATH400 and attending Neighborhood Planning Unit meetings. The goal? Build trust, person to person. The housing program has made that possible—offering financial relief and stability. “It helps me focus and gives me an opportunity to live and create a better life,” he said. “My stress level has definitely gone down.”
As Buckhead continues to grow, he sees real value in having more officers living locally. “Buckhead has a lot of activities and visitors from all over. More officers with positive outlooks will have a huge impact.” He hasn’t seen major crime shifts recently, but he keeps safety front of mind. “I give the community safety tips daily—lock your doors, park in safe areas, don’t leave valuables in your car. It all helps.”
His message to fellow officers considering the program?
“Yes, 100 percent. It gives you the chance to help the community and actually live in it.”
For this officer, being part of Buckhead isn’t just about where he lives—it’s about how he serves. And every day, one small interaction at a time, he’s building something stronger: community.
Follow us as we highlight our first responders taking a part in Buckhead’s First Responder Housing Subsidy Program and being an integral part of our Buckhead community. We appreciate you all and thank you for all you do!
