NORWICH – As the ramifications of recent floods settle into the homes and hearts of Chenango County residents, it’s the work of good people that will rebuild the structures and spirits of many local communities.
Through its summer youth camp, the Chenango County Sheriff’s Department is helping to ensure that future ups and downs in this area, and others, will also be met head-on with strong, civic-minded individuals.
“It’s a program that we’re all very proud of,” said Sheriff Thomas Loughren. “It’s a contribution that I’ve made – that we’ve made – to youth and to Chenango County, building character, respect, caring and honesty.”
The Sheriff’s camp is free of charge for area kids ages 9 through 12, and has been in operation for 11 years at Camp Thompson in Smyrna.
For five weeks of the summer Loughren said it’s a place where kids can have fun surrounded by great role models, in a safe and healthy environment.
Loughren and head counselor Josh Royce agreed that programs such as the camp are necessary to keep kids healthy in the future, but also it meets their immediate needs.
“Especially this year,” said Royce, “with the flooding and the tragedy many of these kids have endured.”
Royce said he hoped the Sheriff’s Camp would be a welcomed relief for some parents who could concentrate on the logistical aspects of getting their lives back in order.
As one would picture a summer camp, the Sheriff’s is filled countless structured activities including sports, swimming, boating, education, group functions, and social awareness. Mixed into the full schedule is several hours of free time, three meal periods and presentations.
In the lodge and around campfires, campers will also listen to demonstrations from local law enforcement officials who’ll explain some aspects of their jobs, including the fun and interesting ones, such as SCUBA diving, operating the K-9 unit, bike patrols, fire trucks, and the day-to-day life of emergency services personnel.
The law enforcement representatives focus on offering campers advice about being safe and making the right choices from a friendly, yet experienced perspective.
“In this camp setting the kids get to see members of law enforcement as real people,” Royce said. “Like their friends and parents.”
Loughren extended gracious appreciation for the YMCA, local county officials, area businesses and corporations, and local citizens for all their support and donations to make sure kids have one more opportunity to be involved in a positive program.
“It’s a real important program for the county,” he said. “It’s one of the best youth programs in the county as well.”