Video: D.A.R.E Camp Helps Youngsters Realize Police Are Here To Help

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TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) –  A group of about 20 children are spending two weeks with the police.   As WCBI’s Allie Martin reports, it’s part of an annual camp organized by Tupelo Police officers to help break down barriers between kids and law enforcement officers.

Throughout the school year,  Tupelo Police Officer Richard Franklin works at the high school campus, but for two weeks, he’s at Lawndale Elementary.

Franklin  is helping organize and run the annual DARE Camp. DARE stands for Drug Abuse Resistance Education.  Students learn about the dangers of drugs and alcohol, along with other topics  such as ,  improving communication skills,  how to prevent bullying and they also learn there is no reason to fear the police.

“It’s very important that they get a good positive note of what police officers, so they can form a relationship with us so we can let them know that we’re just people too and we’re here to help them,” Officer Franklin said.

The two week course allows students to go on field trips, and to play games with police acting as referees.

Students say they are learning a lot and each youngster has a favorite part of the DARE Summer Camp.

“Going bowling and learning about DARE,” said Fifth Grader Isaac Johnson.

“My favorite part is hanging out with police officers, going to the swimming pool and bowling alley,” said Sixth Grader Amiah Cavett.

This camp is a lot of hard work, but police say it’s important to reach this age group with the message of DARE.

“They are getting introduced to things of the world, a lot of influences coming their way from children in higher grades, they are watching and paying attention. What we’re trying to do is communicate with these young people and teach them that there is a better lifestyle, healthy choices for themselves,” Franklin said.

The DARE Camp wraps up Thursday.

Tupelo’s DARE Camp is free to the youngsters.