1,774 youths graduate from 22 Camp Cadet programs

HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania State Police announced that 1,774 youths graduated this year from 22 Pennsylvania State Police Camp Cadet programs held throughout the Commonwealth.
Pennsylvania State Police Troopers, local law enforcement, and other community volunteers staff the weeklong camps, held during the summer. The camps encourage positive relations between youth and law enforcement while promoting the cadets' self-confidence, leadership, and self-esteem.
Camp Cadet seeks interested youth between 11 and 15 years old. Participants gain a better understanding of law enforcement through hands-on equipment demonstrations and classroom discussion while simulating an actual law enforcement-training environment. Other activities include team-building exercises, physical training, and outdoor activities. Each camp is funded through community donations to allow cadets to attend with little or no cost to their families.
"The Camp Cadet program is a valuable way to promote positive relationships between the youth and communities of Pennsylvania and law enforcement personnel," said Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Tyree C. Blocker. "The positive experience provided by these camps can transcend generations, to include parents, children, and even grandparents. It is not unusual to see cadets grow up to join the ranks of the Pennsylvania State Police.”
Each Troop throughout Pennsylvania holds at least one of these camps per year. Some may hold multiple camps depending on the geography and size of the area. To find out more information about next year’s Camp Cadet program, visit psp.pa.gov or call your local State Police station.
The Camp Cadet program was started in 1970 by retired Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Albert Vish. The first program was held in Butler County, Pa.