Programs

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.

The Youth Camp was created as a way for the police department to engage with youth in Bellevue as an avenue to allow youth and the police to come together to build positive community relationships.

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.