The annual Big Brother Big Sisters Lacombe and District (BBBS) Kids N’ Kops camp wrapped up last week after four days of hands-on activities, mentorship, and fun for local youth.
Now celebrating its 15th year, the program is a joint initiative between BBBS, the Lacombe Police Service, the Blackfalds RCMP, and Blackfalds Municipal Enforcement.
Held from July 7 to 10, the camp offered young participants—aged 8 to 11 from Lacombe, Lacombe County, and Blackfalds—an opportunity to build positive relationships with local law enforcement while learning about teamwork, problem solving, and public safety.
Activities included police-style scenarios, forensic science exercises, team-building games, and field trips.
Const. Jeffrey Hewitt with the Blackfalds RCMP, (also known as Const. Jeff) who has participated in the camp at least four times, said watching the kids fully engage is always a highlight.
“The scenarios, it’s awesome watching the kids put on their little duty belts and go around dealing with different situations,” said Hewitt.
On the final day, campers enjoyed dodgeball, a police surveillance activity, slushies, a barbecue, and a graduation ceremony.
Several awards were presented, including one in honour of Jamie Carswell, a former Blackfalds RCMP member who passed away from cancer, and the Colby Sackett Award, named after a young man from Beiseker who was preparing for a career in policing before tragically dying in a collision.
Jen Harty, Community Engagement Director with BBBS, thanked everyone who contributed to the program’s success:
“To the amazing campers, dedicated officers, fantastic volunteers, and our wonderful community, thank you for making the 2025 Kids N' Kops Camp a meaningful and memorable success! Your support doesn't just make a difference today; it leaves a lasting impact on the youth and our community as a whole. We are so grateful for the amazing collaboration and commitment of everyone involved in keeping the heart of this camp where it belongs: with the youth.”
Hewitt noted that while officers often receive praise, the program wouldn’t be possible without BBBS: “Big Brothers Big Sisters always thank us for coming out, but they’re the ones doing all the organizing. It’s truly a great community effort.”
The camp is expected to return next year to continue teaching, exploring, and inspiring youth, perhaps even encouraging a few to pursue careers in law enforcement, Hewitt says he knows of at least one former participant who is now working as a peace officer.
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