Imagine a future where every young person is equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to contribute to a safer and more united community. This is not just a dream—it’s the reality that the National Police Youth Club Camp 2024 is striving to create.
Introduction to the National Police Youth Club Movement
Founded in 1954 by the late Corporal Everald Matthews and social worker Basil Ferguson in Sandy Bay, Hanover, the National Police Youth Club Movement has been instrumental in bridging the gap between the police and the youth. This initiative focuses on addressing youth behavioural issues and fostering trust between young people and law enforcement. Over the years, the movement has grown, developing robust programmes for holistic youth development.
Meet the Coordinators
Sergeant Ricardo McCalpin, the National Police Youth Club Movement Coordinator, and Ricardo Fairman, the National President, lead the charge in advancing the movement's mission. Together, they have shared insights into the camp’s profound impact on youth and the broader community.
Ricardo Fairman's Journey
Ricardo Fairman began his journey with the Sandy Bay Police Youth Club, where he developed invaluable life skills, including leadership, public speaking, and teamwork. These skills paved the way for his current role as the National President, demonstrating the positive impact the Police Youth Club (PYC) can have on individuals.
The Camp Experience: Empowerment and Certification
What to Expect
The National Police Youth Club Camp 2024 offers eight days of immersive engagement, featuring:
Empowerment Sessions: Focused on self-esteem, leadership qualities, and overall personal development, covering emotional, psychological, educational, spiritual, and occupational growth.
Skills Training and Certifications: Through a partnership with HEART/NSTA Trust, participants can earn certifications in customer service, tiling, masonry, electrical connections, and housekeeping—equipping them with skills for immediate employment or entrepreneurship.
Fun and Recreation: The camp includes recreational activities such as sporting events, a mini Mr. and Mrs. PYC pageant, and team-building exercises, fostering friendships and lasting memories.
Success Stories and Testimonials
Ricardo Fairman’s journey from a PYC member to the National President exemplifies the transformative power of the movement. Past attendees have shared how the camp helped them overcome challenges, build confidence, and secure employment, highlighting the pivotal role of the PYC in personal and community development.
Growth and Evolution of the Police Youth Club Movement
The PYC has evolved to better serve the community through initiatives like:
Safe and Sound Jamaica Project: Funded by UNICEF, this project addresses communication barriers between the deaf community and the police.
Community-Based Projects: Including the "Meals on Wheels" initiative, providing meals for the homeless in St. Catherine South, and labour day projects for school renovations.
Engagement and Support: National Police Youth Club Camp 2024
How Parents Can Encourage Participation
Parents are encouraged to support their children’s involvement in PYC by visiting local police stations or reaching out via social media platforms: Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter). The club is open to youth aged 7 to 29, offering a wide range of opportunities.
Community and Volunteer Support
Community leaders, educators, and business representatives can also support the PYC by volunteering or offering resources. The camp is fully secured with a significant police presence and support from medical services.
Registration and Cost
The registration fee is JMD 1,500, but no child will be turned away due to financial constraints, ensuring that every interested young person has the opportunity to benefit.
Look Ahead: Future of the PYC and Camp
The future of the PYC is bright, with plans to introduce programmes in robotics, leadership training, and conflict resolution, preparing youth to thrive locally and globally.
Final Thoughts
As Sergeant Ricardo McCalpin noted, “The engagement that you will have in the police youth club movement will only help you to become a better individual in society. We have seen police youth club members flying to Dubai, Morocco, and Africa, all over the world.” The PYC equips young participants with skills and insights that guide them through life, fostering civic responsibility and leadership.
Acknowledgment of Partnership
We are immensely grateful for the invaluable partnership with the Jamaica Constabulary Force Area 3 Police, whose unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and community safety has made the National Police Youth Club Camp 2024 live forum a reality. Their dedication to fostering trust and building bridges between law enforcement and our young people is truly commendable.
A special thank you to our forum sponsor, National Self-Serve Wholesale in May Pen, Clarendon. Your generous support has not only fueled this important conversation but also strengthened the foundation of this vital initiative. Together, we are empowering our youth, nurturing tomorrow's leaders, and paving the way for a safer and more united Jamaica.
Call to Action
Parents, now is the time to encourage your children to get involved in a movement that can shape their future. Community leaders and businesses, your support can amplify the impact. Every bit of help strengthens the movement, building a better Jamaica.
Join Us
Interested individuals can visit the nearest police station for more information or reach out through social media and the provided contact details. Embrace the opportunity for your child or the youth in your community to be part of an initiative that’s truly making a difference.
Contact Information
President Ricardo Fairman: (876) 598-5495
Sergeant Ricardo McCalpin: (876) 283-5426
Email: npycm@jcf.gov.jm or cssbpycunit@jcf.gov.jm
Serenity Resource Connector: www.serenityresourceconnector.com
Phone: (876) 871-8960
Thank you for supporting the National Police Youth Club Movement and contributing to the positive transformation of our youth and communities. Together, we are building a better Jamaica.
Subscribe below to receive the blog directly to your inbox each week!
Comments