Last year's YIPI crew at Canada Day Celebrations in Lower Reach Park
A summer program that gives local teens a behind-the-scenes look at policing is returning to Smiths Falls for a second year — and organizers say it is already helping shape future careers.
Smiths Falls Police Service Community Outreach Officer Sean Keogan says the YIPI (Youth in Policing Initiative) is open to youth aged 15 to 18 who live and attend school in the community.
Participants work alongside officers at events and learn how police support the public beyond enforcement. Keogan says they’re looking for applicants from ages 15 to 18.
Last summer’s participants helped with major community initiatives, including Old Home Week, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the food bank and Movies Under the Stars.
Keogan says the experience showed youth how policing focuses on community partnerships.
The program also highlights career paths beyond frontline policing.
Four students will be hired for what amounts to a full-time summer job. Applications will be accepted through the police website, with hiring expected before the end of June.