Youth in Policing Graduation
DRPS' Youth in Policing (YIP) Initiative marked the conclusion of the 2023 YIP Summer Initiative with a celebratory graduation event held at Deer Creek.
On August 24th, 2023, DRPS members and the YIP Leadership Team celebrated the significant and remarkable achievements accomplished by the 85 graduates over the span of eight weeks with friends, family and dignitaries.
Throughout the program, this group consistently maintained a high standard of performance. They delivered an outstanding eight-week experience characterized by active community engagement, dedicated learning, and strong leadership.
Their achievements were highlighted by their partnership with the Community Development Council Durham's Newcomer Youth Services to organize a Community Soccer Tournament that engaged over 30 newcomer youth. They hosted the 16th Annual Ripple Effect Youth Forum, uniting over 400 participants from across Ontario to drive a ripple of positive change. This initiative also introduced the program's inaugural Wellness Event, encouraging participants to explore self-care and wellness. Additionally, they hosted the Junior YIP Camp which allowed them to shape the experiences of 80 young campers, providing lessons in leadership and team dynamics.
Demonstrating a commitment to social causes, the Youth in Policing Team raised over $10,000.00 in support of the Hearth Place Cancer Support Centre, providing valuable assistance to families dealing with cancer challenges. In addition, their efforts in Operation GIVE resulted in the collection of over 350 donations for Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag, offering hygiene essentials to Indigenous families.
In the spirit of community engagement, YIP organized the biannual CAN Conference, bringing together more than 40 community organizations and providing over 200 youths from across the Durham Region an opportunity to network and connect with volunteer, employment and support opportunities.
The most notable highlight resulted from their energy and engagement while engaging with Chief Moreira, which led to a historic visit from Solicitor General Michael Kerzner to YIP for the very first time, where he facilitated a question and answer sessions with the students.
Over the summer, students had the opportunity to lead events, earn co-op credits, obtain multiple certifications, participate in community workshops, gaining insights into DRPS units, and growing personally and professionally.
Congratulations to the graduates for their outstanding initiative and achievements!
For those interested, applications for the upcoming 2023-24 Youth in Policing Winter Initiative are OPEN until September 12th. More information is available at www.drps.ca/yip or by reaching out to youthinpolicing@drps.ca.