Staff Report

ROCKFORD – Local law enforcement agencies are teaming up to help motivate kids to become our area’s next leaders.

The Rockford Police Department, Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department and the Rockford Police Benevolent and Protective Association Unit 6 created the Winn-Rock Youth Police Camp.

The free camp is open to kids 12-16. It runs July 8-12 at Rockford University.

The Winn-Rock Youth Police Camp is modeled after the Team Illinois Youth Police Camp, which the Rockford Police Department was part of in 2017 and 2018. It is a structured, weeklong residency program where Rockford University houses the kids in campus dormitories.

The camp follows a strict model of discipline and includes para-military drills, formations, marching, physical fitness exercises.

Classroom instruction focuses on resisting various societal pressures, dangers of drug and alcohol abuse, hygiene, team-building principles, leadership and other life-enhancing skills.

“Kids who participate in the Winn-Rock Youth Police Camp will form lasting relationships with officers and gain the self confidence they need to succeed in life and overcome obstacles,” the Rockford Police Department said in a release

Enrollment is limited. Applications are available at the City of Rockford website.