A provincial youth internship program is returning to Smiths Falls this summer, with four students set to take part in the Youth in Policing Initiative after what police call a successful first year.
Const. Sean Keogan of the Smiths Falls Police Service says applications have closed and interviews are now underway for the paid summer placements, which begin around Canada Day.
Keogan says last year’s interns worked with community partners, volunteer groups and local events, while also leading a charitable giving project of their own.
Keogan says the program also had a lasting impact, with two former participants now pursuing Police Foundations studies.
This summer’s interns will again support organizations including the food bank, Big Brothers Big Sisters and community events.
And Keogan says they are making sure all qualifying youth from Smiths Falls can apply, even if they leave the town for school.
Keogan says he was encouraged by the range and quality of applications, adding the program helps build leadership while strengthening ties between youth and police.
We’ll have more on the program and its work in the coming weeks.
