State police looking to ‘Win-A-Friend’ at summer camp

Local State Police troopers are looking to build a positive relationship with children in Lafourche and Terrebonne parishes via its annual “Win-A-Friend” summer camp program.

The state police and the Louisiana Trooper Foundation established the free camp nearly 30 years ago to help at-risk children, said Trooper Gilbert Dardar, who serves as Troop C’s camp director. However, in recent year the camp has been opened to all 10 to 12 year olds.

The foundation, which formed in 1999, works to establish a support system for youth to promote positive interaction among troopers and children. The foundation provides the meals and transportation for the children, “all we have to do is show up and have fun,” Dardar said.

The summer resident camp is a weeklong adventure held in Holden, La., on the Tickfaw River.

“The place is suited for various summertime activities, including swimming, canoeing, wilderness survival games and hiking,” Dardar said. “The activities done at the camp teach teamwork and builds leadership skills.”

Dardar, a six-year veteran with the state police, was very instrumental in restarting Troop C’s program when he joined the force in 2002.

“Children have a misconception that law enforcement officers are the ‘bad guys’, and we want to change that persona,” he said. “The camp was designed to bridge the gab between law enforcement and children.”

The program is a positive bond between law enforcement officers and children. State police troopers serve as the mentors and counselors at the camp.

“As counselors, we try to earn the child’s trust so they won’t be afraid to call on law enforcement when they’re in trouble,” Dardar said. “It also gives us a chance to be kids again.”

The veteran trooper looks forward to the tribal challenges every year, where the children are divided into groups just like “Survivor’s Island.” They work together to win awards and prizes.

“It’s a lot of fun. The children get competitive sometimes but that’s what its all about working together to win or overcome an obstacle,” Dardar said. “It’s like the game of life, no one is in it alone.”

Troop C is accepting applications. Campers (ages 10-12) will be selected on a first-come, first-served basis. Parents should remember that the local troop will be joined by two other troops, so space is limited.

The boys’ summer camp is scheduled for June 16-20, and the girls’ camp is July 7-11.

Applications can be picked up at Troop C or by calling the Louisiana Trooper Foundation at (225) 346-4367.

The application deadline to attend camp is May 9.

Louisiana State Police Trooper Sgt. Warren Green goes over the ground rules for the campers on what to expect during their week-long adventure with the Troop C troopers. * Photo courtesy of LOUISIANA STATE POLICE