First ever Bellevue Police Youth Camp is a huge success!

In August 2023, Bellevue Police launched its first ever Bellevue Police Youth Camp designed for youth aged 11 to 14 years old to delve into the responsibilities and intricacies of police work. It was a resounding success! 

The youth camp was created as a way for the police department to engage with the youth in Bellevue and is one of many avenues being explored to allow for youth and the police to come together to build positive community relationships.

This 3-day event involving 31 youth provided an immersive experience in the world of policing with team-building activities that built mutual understanding and respect between camp participants, Officers and staff.

The youth participants gained valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of law enforcement and its essential role in maintaining a safe community. For example, participants conducted practical exercises involving a variety of police functions including fingerprint analysis, evidence collection, police press releases, courtroom testimony, and first aid. Some of the most exciting aspects of the program included the Guardian One Helicopter landing and tour, meeting the K9 Officers, solving a crime, and self defense classes. 

Bellevue Police Foundation provided funds to support this pilot program because we think it is vitally important for our youth to have positive connections to the police. Your donations provided meals each of the three days, first aid kits for the youth, specially made challenge coins for the participants, and the purchase of 6 adult tricycles and helmets that will be used again next year for the Emergency Vehicle Operators Course segment. 

A standout feature of the camp was the genuine and positive interactions that occurred between police officers and the youth. Officers served as mentors, offering guidance, insights, and support in an approachable manner meant to build trust, dispel misconceptions and create meaningful connections. 

Bellevue Police plans to run the Youth Camp again next summer and are in discussions of expanding the event to allow middle school and high school youth to attend.  We are excited to have helped get this program off the ground!