DeKalb Sheriff Melody Maddox to host third free summer youth program, applications deadline May 12

DECATUR, GA – The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications for participation in Sheriff Melody M. Maddox’s free 30-day summer youth camp June 1-30, 2023 for DeKalb County young people ages 9 through 16. Applicants must submit a written essay by May 12, 2023 on “Why I Would Like to Attend Boys To Men/Girls to Pearls Camp.”

“Parents and guardians across DeKalb endorse our unique, law enforcement-based approach to summer camp,” said Maddox. “They say the experience was inspirational and life- changing for their children. Encouraged by their response, we expanded the program from a week to 30 days this year, and community supporters have rallied to our support.”

Partners with the Sheriff’s Office include the DeKalb Section of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), which coordinated the “Girls-to-Pearls” segment last year. Since the program began as “Boys-to-Men” in 2021, the now co-ed camp has successfully equipped more than 60 young boys and girls with practical life skills by exposing them to role models and behaviors to help fulfill their dreams as adults.

The month-long schedule of classes and recreational activities will feature presentations by DeKalb Sheriff’s deputies, NCNW members, civic and social organizations, well-known business and professional leaders, and community volunteers.

To apply, submit the essay via email to Lisa Wiley, Public Relations Manager, at lwiley@dekalbcountyga.gov by May 12, 2023.