In follow-up to a survey of youth last year, the Saskatchewan RCMP is launching its first youth advisory committee.
Last year, the Saskatchewan RCMP circulated a youth survey to detachments across the province and received 3,750 responses from youth ages 12-17. The youths identified issues affecting them and 70 per cent of comments related to interests in having positive interactions with the RCMP.
The RCMP is aiming to work with 100 youths to develop solutions to address the root causes of crime in communities. The goal is to increase and enhance RCMP engagement with youths so they feel their voices are valued and they are contributing to effective change.
“In this first year, we are looking to engage with 100 youth by piloting nine detachment committees and 10 additional youth from communities across the province,” said community program officer Laili Yazdani.
The nine detachments piloting the initiative this year include La Ronge, Pelican Narrows, Melfort, La Loche, Meadow Lake, North Battleford, Warman, Moosomin and Southey.
Youths 12-17 who are interested in working with the RCMP to address crime and victim issues identified by youths (such as drugs, bullying, alcohol, vaping and poor driving) and promote awareness events (Pink Shirt Day, National Addictions Awareness Week) are encouraged to apply for the committee.
Members are expected to volunteer a minimum of six hours a month for one school year and participate in weekly meetings, monthly virtual meetings and an annual camp with youth and mentors.
Afterwards, youth members will receive a volunteer certificate that can be used for employment and post-secondary applications.
To request an application form, youths are asked to email their request and submit their completed application to the F Division Community Services mailbox at [email protected]
