The Youth Leadership Academy, now in its fifth year, is a free camp operated by Sheriff Cocchi’s office to give young people with incarcerated parents or who live in economically challenged areas of Western Massachusetts a chance to experience a summer of fun, adventure and learning. The camp is operated thanks to donations, so the money raised directly benefits the young people the camp serves.
“This camp is a way of giving back to the community and building a positive relationship with law enforcement at a young age,” Sheriff Cocchi said. “Summer camp is typically expensive, and many local families can’t afford it. Our Youth Leadership Academy alleviates the financial concern and gives parents a break for a few weeks, while giving the kids some lessons and great memories. My goal is for this to continue to grow each year and have a positive impact on even more young people.”
Mayor Sarno states, “I want to commend and fully support Sheriff Nick Cocchi’s efforts on this great initiative. I am proud to once again support this great event. Sheriff Cocchi provides many programs and initiatives for people with an emphasis on helping them to turn their lives around. The Sheriff’s Shuffle is a special program that supports youth outreach. I want to thank everyone for their continued support, especially all of the partner agencies that continue to work together with us to provide assistance and resources to those in need.”
