Police and Children Together (PACT) Camp
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Purpose
The program was developed by LEFI to address the lack of positive role models and recreational activities for vulnerable youth, sometimes resulting in involvement with delinquent friends, drugs or violence. The camps are designed to put youth and law enforcement personnel together in a cooperative setting that will strengthen bonds between youth and police, and to provide recreational activities that are fun, healthy and “community positive.” In addition, the camps strengthen the presence of the local police department in the community, sometimes providing a needed bridge between families and services.
Recruitment of Campers
Campers can be recruited by the individual officers, using a variety of methods, including scout troops, churches, referrals by police officers, housing authority referrals and local organizations such as Big Brothers/Big Sisters, 4-H or other groups that serve disadvantaged youth.
Activites
Camp activities focus on resiliency factors that strengthen a sense of autonomy, feelings of personal efficacy, heightened self-esteem and a belief in the possibilities of the future. Community service projects reinforce caring and empathy for others. Team-building activities not only help the campers learn to work with others; leadership skills, cooperation, communication and other valuable skills are reinforced. A focus on fun is the common bond of all PACT Camp activities. Specific activities are left to the camp sites, and are dependent upon the facilities and recreational opportunities in the area.
Each PACT Camp must have:
- At least one police-related activity
- Police officers serving as officer counselors, and facilitate transportation for the campers
- At least one community-service project
- At least one team building activity that involves police officers on the team (not as activity leaders)
- Structured, daily physical activities that youths can do at home (probably exercises)
- A graduation ceremony at the conclusion
- The chief must be present for at least a portion of the camp
Home > Youth Services > Special Projects > P.A.C.T.
Jail Diversion and Crime Prevention
Youth Services Department
3026 South California, Building 1, 2nd floor
Chicago, Illinois 60608
Phone 773-869-4711 Fax 773-869-7514
ccysd@cookcountysheriff.org
