The Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF) is reaching out to the young people of Eight Mile Rock, Grand Bahama.

On Wednesday morning the law enforcement agency officially launched the Police Youth and Athletic Club, dubbed the Eight Mile Rock Pacesetters. The official launch took place at the Mount Zion Baptist Church in Jones Town, Eight Mile Rock.

Keynote speaker for the event was Chief Superintendent of Police Ismella Davis. The group also heard from the Administrator for West Grand Bahama Brenda Colebrook.

The theme for the occasion was ‘The Road to Excellence through Training.’

Davis emphasized that the theme should stay with them though childhood and adult life.

She pointed out that the launch of youth clubs in the various communities is very significant to the Royal Bahamas Police Force as indicated in the Commissioner’s Policing Plan 2015.

The Chief Superintendent of Police pointed out that the objective is to educate children and young persons about crime, alcohol, substance abuse and their personal safety; to institute conflict resolution programmes in schools, churches and community group meetings; foster positive relationships between the police and young people; and provide mentoring and character building to children at risk.

She said it is their intention to partner with all stakeholders in developing citizens for the future.

Further, she congratulated Superintendent of Police Loretta Mackey, ASP Delva, Inspector Rolle and the officers of the Eight Mile Rock Division of the RBPF for their stellar leadership in that regard.

Continuing Davis told the young people that she is depending on them to succeed and who they become depends largely on their choices in life. She challenged them to choose life and all of its possibilities.

Also, she pointed out that children live in a materialistic world and they want and have iPods, iPhones, brand name clothing, school bags and shoes, but no grades to correspond.

“It is more important what is in you than what is on you,” she stated while encouraging parents to speak positively with their children.

She also sent a message out to police officers and community leaders who will be working and imparting instructions and knowledge to the young impressionable minds telling them that they are the ones who make lasting impressions upon students when they are most open to learn and form character.
“So I ask that you make certain that in the fulfilment of your duties as teachers, police officers and community leaders, you set good examples,” Davis said.