The Prince George’s County Police Department Celebrates 2nd Successful Youth Empowerment Year

PALMER PARK , MARYLAND – The Prince George’s County Police Department has partnered with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., to mentor and train teenage males in life skills. The EMBODI program (Empowering Males to Build Opportunities for Developing Independence) is designed to reach youth between the ages of 11 and 18, and has provided the Department with an excellent opportunity to interact positively with teenaged male youth.

In his comments to the 30 black male youth completing the 2010-2011 EMBODI year, last Saturday, June 4, 2011, at police headquarters in Palmer Park, Maryland, Interim Police Chief Mark Magaw, complimented them for making wise decisions by saying, “Last year, each of you made a brave choice – the choice to spend some time learning about yourselves and learning about life. Since then, you have gained some valuable skills, and I have no doubt that each of you is now better prepared to succeed in life. For the past year, you have been challenged and encouraged to expand your horizons and reach for your dreams. Through EMBODI, you have learned that you can further your education, find a good job, have positive relationships, and contribute to your community. To put it simply, you have been taught how to be responsible and productive young men.” Over 100 parents, youth and family members attended the ceremony.

The EMBODI program is one of three police department youth programs geared towards supporting teenaged youth. It is the only one that partners with a non-profit agency to reach African American and other Ethnic groups to build self esteem and chart good decision making processes.

Parents of middle and high school African American and other ethnic groups should call the Bureau of Patrol, 301-772-4750, to register their youth for the 2011-2012 EMBODI year. The EMBODI year runs concurrent with the school year, meets for two hours on the second Saturday and is supported by Prince George’s County Police Officers.