The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Danville Area (BGCDA) focuses on building strong character and leadership in its members. The relationship between young people and law enforcement has never been more important.
A recent partnership between BGCDA, the Danville Sheriff’s Office and the Danville Police Department has targeted improving that relationship. Uniformed officers interact with club members weekdays after school in activities such as homework, ping pong, pool, basketball, foosball, etc. The interaction provides a unique relationship bond which is formed outside the realm of stressful environments.
Often, young people only encounter law enforcement when there is a problem or a crisis. The officers also talk with Club members about making smart decisions and being leaders among their peers. This initiative is an intentional partnership aimed to change the way youth in the Dan River Region view law enforcement.