Because of the leadership it has shown with youth engagement initiatives, the Squamish RCMP detachment has been invited to participate in a youth advisory pilot project by E Division Community Policing Services.
Twenty-four out of close to 90 detachments were asked to nominate a youth to sit on an advisory group that is expected to meet monthly over a year to discuss problems in their communities.
The RCMP in British Columbia is establishing its first youth advisory group to provide a voice for young people across the province. One youth participant from each of these communities will be supported by an RCMP mentor from their local detachment to discuss ideas and solutions to issues such as youth victimization, youth criminal activities and youth relationship with police and the justice system.
"There's a selection process of the youth and a selection process for the members," said Cst. John Marinis. "We want to make sure that [the pairing] is appropriate."
The RCMP is looking for B.C. youths between the ages of 14 and 20 from northern and southeastern B.C., Vancouver Island and Lower Mainland communities, including Squamish.
Applicants are encouraged to submit a cover letter about themselves and why they are interested in participating in the Youth Advisory Group. Submit applications via email to the youth strategies coordinator at E Division Community Policing Services, [email protected], or call the Squamish RCMP detachment at 604-892-6100.
