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Certificates of Distinction

Sergeant Dave Harty
Calgary Police Service

Sergeant Dave Harty uses a soft drink can as the symbol for his About Face program.

About Face is a four-hour workshop for youth who have come into conflict with the law. The soft drink can may seem like an unlikely symbol, but the youth, understand that "the good stuff is inside," much like the gifts, abilities and desires to succeed they have within themselves. Harty, along with other off-duty police officers, works with the youth to help them realize that they already possess many gifts inside and they have a choice of opening up and tasting them or pouring them all down the drain. "Ultimately, the kids are given the tools to make better decisions without being held back by their past," he says.

The program aims for youth to take ownership for their actions, understand the consequences of their crime, discover their own abilities and learn the necessary tools so they won't re-offend. Police use the program to educate youth about breaking down the walls that are stopping them from succeeding. "About Face is important as it demonstrates and ultimately shows kids that police officers believe in them," Harty says.

The program is only one element that falls within Harty's Cops for Kids portfolio. Harty has also recruited over 80 officers to volunteer their time to be a mentor to a young person. In partnership with community groups, the officers participate in a variety of sporting events and educational opportunities. Harty organizes the Cops for Kids camp, which is held annually at Tim Horton's Foundation Ranch in Kananaskis country, outside of Calgary. The camp is free and allows at-risk youth a chance to interact with police officers in a positive environment.

Harty created the Junior Police Academy for youth ages 11-16 in an effort to bridge the gap between youth and police officers. The youth get a chance to wear police uniforms and learn about all the elements of being an officer during the week-long session. The academy inspires youth to think about a career in law enforcement.

Contact person:
Sergeant Dave Harty
(403) 206-5900