MPD Offers Free Youth Programs for DC Children and Teens

The Metropolitan Police Department is encouraging families to explore its wide range of youth engagement programs designed to help young people build leadership skills, develop positive relationships, and stay connected to their communities.

Through its Youth and Family Engagement Division (YFED), and with support from the DC Police Foundation Police Activities League (DC PAL), MPD offers year-round programs that reflect the needs and interests of District youth. According to MPD, these initiatives are shaped by research and ongoing feedback from local communities, ensuring programming continues to meet the evolving needs of young people across the city.

Programs are available for a variety of age groups and interests, with opportunities focused on leadership development, mentorship, education, recreation, public safety, and community engagement.

Current MPD Youth Outreach Programs include:

• Honey Bees

• Junior Cadet Program

• Hype It Up

• Cadet Corps

• Officer Friendly and the Side by Side Band

• Reaching New Heights

• Summer Youth Academy

• Youth Advisory Council (YAC) and Youth Advisory Board (YAB)

• Youth Creating Change (YCC)

• Fun and Safe for Kids

These programs provide young people with opportunities to learn new skills, build confidence, connect with mentors, and strengthen relationships with law enforcement in positive and meaningful ways.

Parents, guardians, educators, and community members interested in learning more or enrolling a young person can contact MPD's Youth and Family Engagement Division at (202) 576-6768 or email youth.outreach@dc.gov for additional information about eligibility, upcoming sessions, and program availability.