Bellefontaine Police Host Youth D.A.R.E. Camp at Camp Willson

A Week of Fun, Leadership, and Life Lessons with Local Officers

For over 25 years, the Bellefontaine Police Department, in partnership with the YMCA, has hosted its popular D.A.R.E. Day Camps at YMCA Camp Willson, located in Bellefontaine, Ohio. These enriching camps bring together law enforcement and local youth to build strong relationships, teach critical life skills, and enjoy a full week of summer fun.

This year, two sessions are planned: July 14-18 and July 21-25, each running from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily. The camps are open to students entering 5th grade, with 10 campers accepted per session.

Led by Officer Doug Walters and Officer Isaac Chiles, the camps combine D.A.R.E. curriculum with engaging outdoor activities. Campers participate in swimming, boating, fishing, archery, team-building games, climbing wall challenges, and more.

“It’s always a big time of year for us. We’ll be taking incoming fifth graders out there for a week at Camp Willson for our day camps, doing D.A.R.E. lessons with them and all kinds of outdoor activities—swimming, seeing animals, archery, boating. It’s a big week for the SROs and the kids—they enjoy it.” – Officer Doug Walters

“We enjoy staying connected to our students and community, even through the summer. It’s something we look forward to every year.” – Officer Isaac Chiles

What Campers Will Learn

The D.A.R.E. program focuses on:

• Relationship-building

• Decision-making

• Personal growth

• Responsibility

• Drug and alcohol abuse prevention

Students must bring a water bottle, towel, and swimsuit daily, and wear closed-toe shoes. Parents are responsible for pickup and drop-off, and lunch is provided each day.

Registration Information

Registration is in person only at the Bellefontaine Police Department, and spots are limited. Each child may attend only one session.

Celebrating Community Partnerships

The D.A.R.E. summer camps hosted by the Bellefontaine Police Department are a shining example of community-police partnerships that work. By combining mentorship, education, and outdoor fun, these officers are positively shaping the lives of the next generation.

We Love Police: Stories That Strengthen Our Communities

At We Love Police, we spotlight the powerful moments that show law enforcement at its best. If you are interested in learning more stories like this, visit our Community Involvement section. You can also explore our Chaplain Services to see how we support the emotional and spiritual well-being of officers nationwide.

References

• Story and Image Source: Bellefontaine Police hosts 2025 D.A.R.E. Day Camps at Camp Willson | Peak of Ohio (by April King)

• Audio Source: Stream SRO Doug Walters on D.A.R.E. Camp by WPKO News | SoundCloud 

FAQs

1. What is the D.A.R.E. program?

The D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program teaches students decision-making skills to lead safe and healthy lives, while strengthening relationships between youth and law enforcement.

2. Where is Camp Willson located?

Camp Willson is a YMCA facility located in Bellefontaine, Ohio, serving as a longstanding partner in hosting youth camps and leadership retreats.

3. Who can attend the D.A.R.E. summer camp?

Students entering 5th grade in the upcoming school year are eligible to register. Ten students will be accepted per weeklong session.

4. What are School Resource Officers (SROs)?

SROs are trained police officers assigned to work in schools. They focus on safety, mentorship, and community engagement with students.

5. How do I register my child for the D.A.R.E camp?

Registration must be done in person at the Bellefontaine Police Department. Space is limited to 10 campers per session.