They are the men and women in blue - but when the uniform comes off, many are also mothers and fathers to children with special needs. 

The department is holding its first ever 5K race this weekend to raise awareness and money.

News 12's Katie Lusso spoke to some of the parents who will benefit from this special event.

NYPD Sgt. Brian Bartley says that one thing that has helped with his daughter's generic disorder is his brothers and sisters in blue both at the 67th Precinct and at NYPD Cares.

NYPD Cares is an organization for NYPD officers with special needs children. The organization helps families connect.

The 5K run for NYPD Cares and NYPD Arms wide Open is this weekend at Cadman Plaza Park in Downtown Brooklyn.

News 12 is a sponsor of the run.