CCSO Camp and Students Stand Together to “Just Say No”

The Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) hosted the 27th Annual Just Say No Camp from August 3-6 at the College of Southern Maryland La Plata campus.

More than 40 children between the ages of 10 and 13 years old attended the camp, making it one of the program’s largest turnouts. The students, who were selected by their teachers, demonstrated good behavior and consistent attendance at their school-sponsored Just Say No Club meetings.

“The Just Say No program is critical to the fight against drugs, as it educates our youth about how to handle peer pressure and the importance of staying alcohol and drug free,” said Sheriff Troy Berry. “I am proud of these students for being part of this program and taking a stand against drugs.”

At the free Just Say No Camp, CCSO’s School Resource Unit officers discussed numerous topics with the students including drug abuse, tobacco and alcohol prevention and internet safety and also introduced students to many aspects of police work. The kids had the opportunity to use evidence to solve a case, explore crime scene investigation and fingerprinting, and learn about teen court and other programs offered by the Sheriff’s Office. The students received lunch and had the opportunity to swim in CSM’s pool each day. They celebrated the conclusion of the camp with a trip to the Chesapeake Beach Water Park.

“We truly enjoy having the opportunity to coordinate and work with the kids at Just Say No Camp,” said Pfc Sheilagh Cook, a school resource officer. “These exceptional children serve as positive role models to their peers all year long, leading by example and showing them that you don’t have to participate in drugs, alcohol or internet bullying in order to be ‘cool.’ They deserve to be rewarded.”

The Just Say No Camp is funded through donations from individuals and businesses. Anyone interested in donating may make checks payable to “Charles County Just Say No Club” and mail them to: Charles County Sheriff’s Office, Attn: Pfc Cook, P.O. Box 189, La Plata MD 20646.

The CCSO would like to thank the following businesses and organizations who made the 2015 Just Say No Camp a success: Chaney Enterprises, Middleton Hall, Gragan & Son Glass, Charles County Auto Body, Waldorf Elks Lodge 2421 and the Maryland International Raceway. The CCSO also extends special appreciation to the College of Southern Maryland for allowing the camp to be held on its campus.