Youths from six high schools met this past weekend for the second Cumberland County RCMP Cops N Kids Leadership Weekend at the Tim Hortons Childrens’ Camp.

Over the course of three days and two nights, 78 youths engaged in several advisory discussions with support from 14 adults made up mainly of police officers and educators.

The RCMP Commanding Officer in Nova Scotia, Assistant Commissioner Brian Brennan, met the group on Friday and had interactive discussions with the youth. Discussions were based around healthy relationships, violence in relationships, bullying, cyber bullying, empathy, gender roles, stereotypes and consent. Sunday morning was a reflection on the weekend where youth engaged in talks about the future and acceptance of each other.

One camp member stated ‘So this weekend was probably the best weekend I’ve ever had. I got to catch up with some friends I haven’t seen in a while, and I got to meet some amazing people!’. Another added ‘ I had the best weekend of my life the last few days, I want to thank each and everyone of you for sharing the experience with me. I have never felt so accepted and socially involved with such a large number of people, thank you!’.

The camp ended with a surprise impromptu song listened to and sung by the kids: ‘We’ve come a long way from where we began… Oh, I’ll tell you all about it when I see you again…’

For more information on this or other programs, please contact Cst. Travise Dow, Cumberland County Community Policing Officer.

Source: Release