YIP Graduation

On March 26, 2025, the Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) Youth in Policing (YIP) Initiative celebrated the success of its 2024-25 Winter program with a graduation ceremony at J. Clarke Richardson Collegiate in Ajax.

The event welcomed more than 200 families, friends, police service members, and distinguished guests to recognize the outstanding achievements of the 100 YIP Students over the past 14 weeks. 

Throughout the winter program, YIP students engaged with the community, committed themselves to learning, and demonstrated strong leadership and teamwork. This Winter Initiative was the largest in YIP history, employing 100 students and 18 youth leaders.

More than 80 DRPS members – sworn officers, civilians, and volunteers – contributed to the program’s success alongside 53 community organizations and public safety partners.

Collectively, YIP students organized eight events, raised more than $15,000, and donated nearly  2,000 food items to charitable groups while gaining valuable insight into policing beyond the uniform. 

The graduation ceremony opened with performances by the DRPS Pipes and Drums and the DRPS Choir, followed by remarks from Deputy Chief of Police Kim Yeandle and DRPS Police Service Board member Willie Woo, who commended the graduates on their accomplishments.

Valedictorians shared reflections on their experiences before the presentation of awards and certificates. The event concluded with closing remarks from the Youth Engagement Coordinator and a video recap of the program. 

The YIP team extends its gratitude to all attendees, including families, friends, Police Service Board members, the DRPS Command Team, community partners, and special guests, whose support and enthusiasm contributed to the program’s success. 

This graduation not only marked a milestone for the students but also reaffirmed YIP’s commitment to developing future leaders. For more information on the program and how to get involved, visit www.drps.ca/yip