For ten years a cooperative effort between the Maine Sheriffs' Association, the Volunteers of America, and the Maine D.A.R.E. Officers Association has provided an innovative program for Maine youth. Focused on tobacco, alcohol, drug, and crime prevention, Camp P.O.S.T.C.A.R.D. is designed to benefit some of Maine's most deserving 5th and 6th graders. Camp P.O.S.T.C.A.R.D. (Police Officers Striving To Create And Reinforce Dreams) provides kids with direct involvement and mentoring with a variety of law enforcement and criminal justice professionals.
This popular and successful program has proven to be an important opportunity to build strong relationships and valuable life skills that serve our campers, their families, and their communities. The primary goals of Camp P.O.S.T.C.A.R.D. are to establish positive bonds between the children and law enforcement and criminal justice professionals, and to use that relationship to help reduce crime and the use of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs. Another important goal is to help empower children to take more control of and responsibility for their own decisions, actions, and ultimately their future. The program also increases awareness for schools, parents, and communities abou the issues that are important to children.
The Volunteers
of America Northern New England website has a wonderful, long story on Camp P.O.S.T.C.A.R.D. with photos, including information on how to "adopt" a camper. Maine Sheriffs' Association is proud to be part of Camp P.O.S.T.C.A.R.D.
