Step Into the Badge: EEYP’s Youth Law Enforcement Academy Empowers Fort Bend County Teens to Explore Careers in Criminal Justice
For high school students in Fort Bend County interested in a career in public service, the Expose Excellence Youth Program (EEYP) is offering a unique, hands-on opportunity this summer. In partnership with the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office, EEYP has opened applications for its 2025 Youth Law Enforcement Academy, hosted at the Gus George Law Enforcement Academy in Richmond.
The free day camp will be offered in two sessions:
- Session 1: June 9–12, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Session 2: July 21–24, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Open to students ages 14–17 who reside in Fort Bend County and have no prior offenses, the academy gives participants a real-world look into law enforcement and criminal justice professions, both in general and specialized fields.
“We designed this program to spark interest, inspire leadership, and help students explore the wide range of opportunities available in law enforcement,” said Raven Forrester, Program Director at EEYP. “There’s a growing need for the next generation of public servants, and we’re here to help shape that future.”
An Inside Look at Law Enforcement Careers
The weeklong program covers essential topics in modern policing and public safety, including:
- De-escalation & Crisis Intervention
- K-9 and SWAT Demonstrations
- FBI & Federal Law Enforcement Overview
- Crime Scene Investigation (CSI)
- Juvenile Law & Legal Rights
- Traffic Stop Procedures and Firearm Safety
- “Shoot/Don't Shoot” Decision-Making Scenarios
Students will interact with local officers, federal agents, and public safety professionals to gain a well-rounded understanding of law enforcement challenges and practices. The program aims to foster critical thinking, leadership, and civic responsibility among participants.
Applications are due by May 10, 2025, and can be submitted online at this website. Selected students will be notified in late May.
“This is more than just a summer camp—it’s a chance for teens to see what it really takes to serve and protect a community,” Forrester added. “We want to give them the tools and exposure to make informed decisions about their future.”
Meet the Expose Excellence Youth Program (EEYP)
Launched by the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office, Expose Excellence Youth Program works to mentor, engage, and empower at-risk and underserved youth. Through workshops, internships, educational initiatives, and programs like the Youth Law Enforcement Academy, EEYP seeks to provide alternatives to the criminal justice system while nurturing leadership, responsibility, and civic engagement.
The organization’s holistic approach includes career exploration, academic support, and community involvement—offering youth the guidance they need to reach their full potential.
Meeting a Nationwide Demand
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for law enforcement professionals is projected to remain steady, but agencies across the country are facing recruitment challenges due to retirements, rising job expectations, and shifts in public perception. A 2023 report by the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) found that 63% of police departments reported a decrease in applicants compared to previous years.
In Fort Bend County, the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office (FBCSO) has been experiencing staffing shortages also. As of late May 2024, there were over 100 vacant positions within the agency, including both law enforcement and civilian roles. In response, the FBCSO implemented measures such as freezing certain positions to allocate funds for salary increases, aiming to attract and retain personnel. Additionally, the Sheriff's Office has hosted hiring events to fill critical roles like detention officers, patrol deputies, and 9-1-1 dispatchers.
As agencies seek to rebuild public trust and increase diversity, programs like EEYP’s Youth Law Enforcement Academy are seen as key to building stronger community relationships and cultivating homegrown talent.
Don't Miss Out
With law enforcement agencies nationwide seeking the next generation of dedicated public servants, EEYP’s Youth Law Enforcement Academy offers Fort Bend teens a rare chance to step behind the scenes and explore a career in criminal justice. From hands-on training to real-world insights, this program equips students with valuable experience and leadership skills that can shape their futures. Don’t miss your chance to take the first step—apply by May 10 and be part of something bigger.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
