Applications open for summer youth programs

Two summer youth programs, the second annual Regional Youth Academy (RYA) and a new documentary youth workshop by Bloomfield Community Television (BCTV), are currently seeking applicants for their programs, which are designed for teens 14-18.

Both programs are free. Space is limited.

RYA is a part of a coordinated effort among several police departments, including Bloomfield Township, Birmingham, Auburn Hills and Rochester. The Academy offers participants the opportunity to learn and get involved in topics like investigations, criminal law/procedure, CPR certification, traffic stops, firearm safety and scenario training. This year, a media training component has been added through a partnership with BCTV.

Those who participate in the documentary workshop will get to tell the stories of RYA cadets. BCTV staff will advise and instruct the burgeoning filmmakers with interview techniques, pre-production strategies, hands-on camera training and editing.  The final short video created by the students will be shown at the RYA graduation ceremony on Thursday, June 27.

“The relationship between media and the police in our country is fractured,” said cable and community relations director Carrie LeZotte. “While we have excellent relationships locally, national stories and coverage impact the morale of public safety professionals everywhere. My hope is that programs like this one can help build mutual trust and respect between media and police, both complicated and stressful professions.”

Applications for RYA may be picked up from the Bloomfield Township Police Department at 4200 Telegraph Road or email CRO@bloomfieldtwp.org for an application.

Applications for the BCTV documentary workshop may be picked up from the Bloomfield Township Cable Studio at 4190 Dublin Road or emailing cable_dept@bloomfieldtwp.org.

Applications for both programs are due May 20 at 12 p.m. If parents or applicants have questions, they can contact police department community relations officer Nick Soley at 248.433.7724 or LeZotte at 248.433.7791.