08/01/2026
Another incredible week at the Amherst & UMass Police Youth Adventure Academy!
Over the past week, campers entering 6th, 7th, and 8th grade stepped into the world of public safety through hands-on experiences, teamwork, and plenty of fun.
Throughout the week, campers tackled team-building challenges, a ropes course, and zip lining while building confidence and learning the value of communication and leadership. They participated in realistic patrol scenarios, including disturbance calls, crime scene investigations, and a search-and-rescue exercise alongside the Amherst Fire Department. Campers also learned defensive tactics before putting their new skills to the test in practical exercises.
Campers had the opportunity to experience a variety of specialized law enforcement demonstrations, including K-9 demonstrations from several area police departments and a TASER demonstration, where they learned about the tools, training, and decision-making officers use to safely resolve incidents.
A special thank you to the Chicopee Police Department for welcoming campers and providing an opportunity to explore specialized police equipment and resources used by law enforcement professionals.
Even when the weather didn’t cooperate, the fun continued indoors with basketball, games, cards, and plenty of friendly competition.
Thank you to all of our instructors, partner agencies, volunteers, and everyone who helped make this academy possible. Most importantly, thank you to our campers for your enthusiasm, curiosity, teamwork, and willingness to challenge yourselves throughout the week. We hope you leave with new friendships, lasting memories, and a greater understanding for the many ways first responders serve our communities.
We can’t wait to see what the future holds for each of you—and we hope to see you back next summer!
