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Operation Safe Haven
In conjunction with the department's D.A.R.E. program, the Special Operations Platoon also conducts a summer camp each July. This camp, know as Operation Safe Haven, was first held in the summer of 1996. The first camp was 3 days long and had 30 campers. Since that first camp, it has grown to a full 5 days and annually reaches 50 to 60 kids.
The camp targets 5th grade D.A.R.E. graduates that are rising to the 6th grade. The camp reinforces the messages taught in the D.A.R.E. classroom through interaction with the officers and special guest speakers. However, the camp is also full of fun activities. Campers have visited Carowinds, the N.C. Zoo, Panther's stadium, baseball games, Discovery Place, and a variety of other fun activities.
Although the schedule changes from year to year, one thing remains constant. The camp is free for all campers. A host of businesses donate food, refreshments, and other support to help this camp remain free. To help show their appreciation, on last day of camp campers participate in numerous community service projects. Over the years campers have built handicap ramps, helped with home improvement projects, worked at the local soup kitchen, performed litter pick up, and other worth while projects.
The camp culminates with a graduation and banquet for the campers and their families. If you would like more information concerning the camp contact Captain Mark D. Bradshaw at (828) 432-2525 or email at mbradshaw@ci.morganton.nc.us. In addition, if you are a business or other organization that would like to support Operation Safe Haven please contact Captain Bradshaw.
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