Spring Valley, NY — For over a decade, the Spring Valley Police Department (SVPD) has proudly led an annual 5-day camping trip to Harriman State Park, giving hundreds of local youth an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, learning, and mentorship.

This long-running tradition offers much more than just a break from routine — it provides a unique opportunity for children to disconnect from their daily environment and reconnect with nature, learning essential survival skills like building shelters, starting fires, and navigating the wilderness.

But the impact goes far beyond the trails. The trip fosters trust, confidence, teamwork, and lasting relationships between Spring Valley youth and the police officers who mentor them throughout the journey. It’s a powerful example of community policing in action — where bonds are formed not through lectures, but through shared experiences and mutual respect.

Special thanks go out to Detective Sergeant Charles, Police Officer Gomez, School Resource Officer Evelyn, and Police Officer Riobe, whose dedication and mentorship have made a lasting difference in the lives of so many young participants.
As the program continues to grow, the Spring Valley PD remains committed to building bridges through positive engagement, proving that impactful community outreach is very important for the department.