In an endeavor to reach out to area youth, the Kinston Police Department is looking to hold a Teen Advisory Council in the future.
Applications for the Kinston Police Teen Advisory Council will be taken until Dec. 21 and can be acquired by emailing KPD Community Relations Coordinator Yolanda Thigpen at yolanda.thigpen@ci.kinston.nc.us. Thigpen said the board will consist of eight to 12 members and there are a few requirements.
“We’re looking for boys and girls between the ages of 12 and 17 who live in Kinston or Lenoir County, are willing to commit to monthly meetings, can articulate their views or concerns and are responsible young people,” Thigpen said. “This was (KPD) Chief Alonzo Jaynes’ vision, to forge positive relationships with the young people and the police department, to be a voice in the community and see what they would lie more of in a positive manner.”
Jaynes said this was a concept he had been considering for a while and felt the timing was right for implementation.
“We hope to give young people in the area a voice, strengthen the relationship and learn to serve them better,” Jaynes said. “When we have meetings in the community, there aren’t a lot of young people there and we hope to encourage them, letting them know they have a voice.”
Jaynes said the council could also work as a segue toward the police explorers program for those interested in law enforcement as a career.
“In that program, we teach problem-solving, conflict resolution and drills,” Jaynes said. “They participate in our events such as the swearing-in ceremony and prepare for real-life experiences, which could lead to a career in law enforcement.”
For additional information, contact Thigpen at 252-939-4025.
