PSA: CPS Youth Mentorship Program Open House

The Calgary Police Service will be showcasing several unique opportunities for youth and young adults, which focus on personal development while experiencing the world of policing first-hand.

The CPS Youth Mentorship Program will host an open house on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2014, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., for parents and youth interested in learning more about CPS Cadet programs. This will take place at the CPS Headquarters East Building, Westwinds Campus, located at 5111 47 Street N.E.

Set in a policing environment, these programs provide opportunities for young men and women to develop leadership skills, gain education through experience, enhance physical fitness and set the stage for camaraderie, positive social interaction and achievement.

Calgary Junior Police Academy – Ages 12 – 16

The week-long Junior Police Academy runs three times a year, during school spring break, the third week of July and the third week of August.

During this free program, youth get to see what it’s like to be a Calgary police officer. They get an "up close" look at many aspects of policing, including various specialty units, including the Air Support Unit (HAWCS helicopters) and the Tactical Team.

Calgary Police Cadet Corps – Ages 12 – 17

Runs year round, with Thursday training nights from September to May. The program also includes four or five weekend exercises per year.

The Calgary Police Cadet Corps gives youth the unique opportunity to participate in a Cadet family. The focus is on policing, while providing youth with leadership, citizenship, education and physical fitness experiences that will support their personal development. Youth who join the Corps will develop social, academic and physical skills, building confidence and respect.

There is no charge for the program, and the applicants submit an essay on why they want to participate.

Calgary Police Auxiliary Cadets – Ages 18+

While previous cadet experience is not necessary, this program bridges the gap between the Cadet Corps and the police recruit process, by providing paid training and employment to participants ages 18 and over. The Auxiliary Cadet Program is comprised of young adults who are genuinely interested in a career in law enforcement, from diverse social, economic and cultural backgrounds. In addition to paid employment within the Service, the program offers a variety of mentorship and learning opportunities.

A video showcasing the CPS Auxiliary Cadet Program is available on the Calgary Police Service Youtube channel.

These unique programs all offer valuable experience and development opportunities, using the equipment, facilities and subject matter experts of the Calgary Police Service.

The open house will feature displays and videos and will give interested youth and their parents an opportunity to meet current Cadets and CPS Youth Mentorship Program staff.

For more information on the CPS Cadet Corps, go to www.calgarypolice.ca and search “youth mentorship” or www.calgarypolicecadets.com. Email cadetcorps@calgarypolice.ca or call 403-801-0861.