LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Las Vegas Metropolitan Police say they are working to keep at-risk kids out of trouble through a 12-week course called the DREAM program.
Officers said that, especially after recent incidents of violence involving teens, they want to highlight how the program gives young people other options. The DREAM program brings in role models and officers to work with youth on decision-making, goal setting, and family support.
Many participants are referred by parents or by the courts, but police said kids do not have to be in trouble to join.
“The whole goal is that we want these youth to understand their circumstances don’t have to dictate who they’re going to be… we’re there to empower them and redirect them when they’re facing difficult decisions,” Sgt. Miles Peshlakai of LVMPD said.
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Officer Ben Baldassarre said many kids are hesitant at first because their first experience with law enforcement has often been negative.
“A lot of them are apprehensive at first because their first experience with law enforcement is usually negative… but by the end, the kids who wouldn’t even shake our hands are hugging us and telling us they appreciate us,” Baldassarre said.
Police said the DREAM program serves kids ages 10 to 18 and runs three sessions a year. Families can find a registration form at this link.
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