As far as youth programs go, there is just about anything you can think of: athletics to camping, faith-based to science camps. Here in Charlotte, one of those standout camps is the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Envision Academy.
The academy was started several years ago by then Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Kerr Putney. He wanted a program that gives local kids, such as Stephanie Garcia-Palma, exposure to different career, college and recreational opportunities.
One of the goals of the program is to give the participants skills and opportunities to venture outside their day-to-day life. For Stephanie, it gave her the space, determination and perseverance to reach her goals even though it was outside of her comfort zone.
“I learned to have more confidence in communicating with others and to voice my opinion to contribute to a greater effort,” Stephanie said. “Working alongside others makes one gather a better understanding of your peers while also reinforcing teamwork skills and better abilities to collaborate with others.”
The program provides participants with a scholarship and 160 hours of interaction with officers while increasing their community knowledge, exploring issues that affect the community and creating a platform so they can envision a better future for themselves and Charlotte.
“I’d say my favorite volunteer program would be ‘You Not Me’ since it made me reflect on some things. It really got to me in a good heartwarming way,” Stephanie said. “I felt like the inspiring words said made me see a different perspective of life and how one can contribute to society to make it a better place.”
Over the course of the program, the teens were exposed to many different career opportunities, including a presentation with some of the staff and reporters at WSOC-TV.
“My favorite experience was the feeling that I can be successful and there are several opportunities for me out there,” she said. “Seeing how successful the people who took time out their day for this program were and discovering all the tools given to me for my success felt good.”
Each week focused on a broad theme that is supported by local businesses and nonprofits: Envision Orientation; Envision Government, Politics and Justice; Envision the City; Envision the Environment; Envision the Economy; Envision Health and Human Services; Envision Education; and Envision the Future.
The scholars also spent time with CMPD officers who serve as mentors during the eight-week program. They are able to build positive relationships with the officers and get to know them on a personal level.
“I had a pretty nice relationship with the CMPD officers assigned to my group,” Stephanie said. “They were very trustable and sincere people, good people who wanted to make sure this program would contribute towards your success in life.”
It was clear Stephanie gained much more than experience, and the relationships she built will last a lifetime.
“I believe that if we all helped each other out and build good relationships with one another, it would make this community better,” she said. “Unity is what we need in this life; separation is what will tear this world apart.”
Wise beyond her years, this standout teenager believes that everyone has something special to contribute to society, which is why she thought the teamwork and collaboration were essential.
“Sometimes it’s the little things that count. One smile could make someone’s day,” Stephanie said. “That positivity received is a nice heartwarming feeling, but it feels even better when you’re the one giving.”
If you have an inspiring story to share, email Kevin Campbell, WSOC-TV/WAXN-TV/Telemundo Charlotte public affairs manager, at Kevin.Campbell@wsoctv.com
Cox Media Group
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