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Lincoln, NE – Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Centers (YRTCs) across the state recently celebrated Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, allowing youth to meet one-on-one with members of local law enforcement agencies. Hastings celebrated the day on Sept. 5, while Kearney held a picnic on Sept. 6.
“We're proud to show appreciation toward our law enforcement agencies, who are some of our strongest allies in our local communities," Office of Juvenile Services Administrator Mark LaBouchardiere said. “These celebrations are important to provide our youth with positive interactions with officers."
For YRTC-Kearney's annual picnic, more than 40 guests and 60 employees took part in the occasion. Special thanks to Facility Maintenance Manager Rich Hancock, Food Service Director James Orme and their staff, as well as the Employee Recognition Committee for providing the food and desserts. Members of the Kearney Police Department, Buffalo County Sheriff's Department, and Nebraska State Patrol (NSP) were able to attend and eat alongside the center's youth. Four youth ambassadors from the facility were also present to greet all the attendees as they arrived for the picnic.
“I want to thank all of YRTC-Kearney for a spectacular Law Enforcement Day Picnic, including our amazing youth ambassadors and anyone who helped make this event possible," YRTC-Kearney Facility Administrator Cindy Krolikowski said. “Events like these are so important for our children to learn more about our law enforcement agencies and take away a worthwhile experience."
YRTC-Hastings' Law Enforcement Appreciation Day was a first for the facility, which opened in 2021. The celebration had members of the Hastings Police Department (HPD), Adams County Sherriff's Department and NSP meet with youth and answer any questions they had. The youth were also able to meet with Officer Kane, a K-9 police dog with HPD, and hand out refreshments to each of the attending officers. Baskets containing cookies and drinks were also sent to each agency office to give to those who were unable to attend due to calls and training. The baskets included a note from youth from the YRTC-Hastings as well as staff members, thanking them for their work.
“We are so happy with how this year's event went and are excited to be able to hold more in the future," YRTC-Hastings Facility Administrator Camella Jacobe said. “Our youth were more than happy to show their appreciation, even if it was just handing them a small snack."