TPD joins Camp Postcard

The Thermopolis Police Department has once again joined in with Camp Postcard, Chief Julie Mathews noted Tuesday morning.

The program is done through Volunteers of America, Mathews explained, and law enforcement officers throughout Wyoming work with local school districts to identify students that might not otherwise have a lot of opportunities. Those chosen go to Casper Mountain for a week to spend time with the officers.

Mathews noted the officers are not in uniform at this time, and they work with the kids in various programs the build trust, teamwork, and self-esteem.

Thermopolis, she said, had one student participate in the camp this year, and she’s hoping to see five or six next year. Officer Bobbi Byrd accompanied the student.

Among the activities, Mathews said, were seeing a Black Hawk helicopter up close and visiting with two-star generals, a demonstration day that included visits with K-9 units and bomb squads, and fire trucks with mounted patrols. On another day, all of the sheriffs and police chiefs served the kids lunch.

To cap off the week, there is an awards night during which the kids are recognized for participation in various activities, and officers do a walkthrough in uniform. Mathews said this walkthrough can be especially emotional as the kids haven’t seen officers in uniform all week and realize just how much fun they’ve had and what they’ve learned from law enforcement.

Mathews wll be gearing up for the next Camp Postcard in March or April.