DeSoto County deputies hold youth camp

Do the youth find DeSoto County sheriff's deputies scary? Are they intimidated by their presence? Do they run when they come near?

The deputies hope not, and are working on their relationship with the area youth.

"We want kids to see us as friends," said Sheriff Vernon Keen. "We have to gain respect from the kids so we can get their compliance. We are in an age where if we tell kids not to do something, they are going to do it just to see the consequences. We do not want that attitude to continue. We want to let them know we are here to help and make their life easier. Most importantly, we want the kids to know we do more than put people in jail."

Harmonizing among the deputies and DeSoto's youth was the theme at the Florida Sheriff Youth Ranch Camp held last week at the fairgrounds. A team of four college students who travel the state partnered with the DeSoto sheriff's deputies to host the camp.

"It was a good turnout," said DeSoto County Sheriff Public Information Officer and camp coordinator Harry Evers. "We had a total of 57 children sign up and we had fun."

"The camp was made possible through a settlement that the Florida state attorney general settled with the pharmaceutical companies," said Keen. "They were awarded $1 million dollars and used it to help teach kids about nutrition and safety throughout the state."

"Harmony in the Streets" was a week long camp that hosted series of skits performed by the college team, craft activities and plenty of visits from area resources. The school resource officers were involved as well. They dressed in uniform on day one so that the children would recognize them. After that they blended in as they participated in the free camp for children.

"We had the gaming people out here one day to teach the kids and then the firemen came and taught about fire safety," Evers said. "The main message we wanted to teach was the importance of respect. We taught a lot about being polite to others, no matter who they are, everyone deserves respect. It was a really good week."

On Friday, the counselors and officers held an awards ceremony. Every child involved received a certificate, a T-shirt and a goodie bag. Helpers were recognized as well. After the ceremony, the kids and their parents enjoyed a barbecue lunch.

"This was fun," said Chris Cespedez, 12. "We learned how to build a guitars out of pipes and went on scavenger hunts and I met a lot of new friends."

If possible, the county hopes to host another camp next year.

"This year we got the money from the state, and the fair association offered us the buildings we needed for free. But if we cannot get a grant like this next year, we will try to get support from area merchants," Evers said. "We are looking at continuing it if we can."

"This was a good program and we had a great outcome," Keen said. "It sets a good foundation for the youth. I would prefer to spend more resources in programs like this instead of spending money on crime after it is too late."

By Sara Spas

Special to the Arcadian