CARTERVILLE, Ill. (WSIL) -- The Jackson County Board approved $20,000 from national opioid settlement funds to support the 2025 Team Illinois Youth Police Camp.
The camp, held at the Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, is a week-long residency for youth ages 13 to 17.
The program promotes law enforcement engagement, leadership, personal development, military structured exercises, cultural diversity, physical fitness and social and interpersonal skills. It also emphasizes opioid and substance abuse prevention education.
Local police, sheriff departments, social service agencies, the Illinois National Guard, and Illinois State Police operate the camp.
The initiative is inspired by a 15-year successful model from the Metro East area, fostering understanding between youth and law enforcement.
The camp begins Sunday, June 8, 2025, with graduation on Saturday, June 14, 2025.
This effort highlights the Board’s dedication to youth development and proactive substance use prevention in Jackson County.
