Portland Police Bureau Cancels 2016 Youth Summer Camp

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Monday, February 22, 2016

GoLocalPDX News Team

The Portland Police Bureau has announced that it will not be able to offer the Youth Summer Camp in 2016 due to a staffing shortage.

"I would like to personally thank all the officers, volunteers, and community partners who have supported the camp in its variations since starting it in 1990. More than 7,500 youth have benefited from the camp throughout the years, and today, there are several former camp participants who have gone on to become college athletes, police officers, teachers and other outstanding members of the community. I am proud of the Bureau's commitment to making a difference in the lives of children," said Chief Lawrence P. O'Dea III.

The camp ran for over 20 years and provided a summer sports and educational enrichment activities for youth. However, budget reductions and a decrease in the number of officers available for public safety have limited the Bureau's ability to offer the camp in June.

The camp can take up to 120 police officers and civilian volunteers. The Bureau does not have enough officers available for this effort or the budget to support it.

The Bureau will revisit its ability to offer a youth summer camp  during the next fiscal year, but until then, the Bureau encourages community members to explore other low-cost summer opportunities for youth.

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