Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), in collaboration with the Pennsylvania National Guard and the Pennsylvania American Legion, is now accepting applications for its annual youth camp. The Elmer Hafer–American Legion–State Police–National Guard Youth Camp will take place June 6–12, 2027, at Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County.
This program provides young people with an opportunity to develop leadership, confidence, discipline, self-esteem, and a strong sense of personal responsibility,” said Lieutenant Colonel George L. Bivens, Acting Commissioner of the Pennsylvania State Police. “State Police Youth Week is about creating future leaders by challenging cadets to grow, develop their strengths, and recognize their potential. Through this program, they gain valuable life skills and develop a deeper understanding of service, responsibility, and commitment. Our goal is for every cadet to leave with greater confidence in themselves, a stronger sense of purpose, and the foundation to become a leader in their community.”
The six-day program is for 15- to 17-year-olds interested in exploring careers in Pennsylvania law enforcement or the military. Cadets will take part in a wide range of hands‑on learning experiences and physical fitness training designed to build their understanding of law enforcement as well as their confidence, teamwork, self-esteem, and leadership abilities.
Giving our young people the chance to explore these pathways offers them and their families a meaningful glimpse into what a life of service can truly be,” said Major General John R. Pippy, Pennsylvania’s Adjutant General and head of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). “The Elmer Hafer Camp provides an experience rooted in responsibility and purpose, and we are grateful for the opportunity to continue supporting Pennsylvania’s youth in such a meaningful way.”
Activities and demonstrations include police scenarios, physical fitness training, drill and ceremony, forensics, traffic and criminal law, water survival, marksmanship, and teambuilding. Cadets will also visit the Fort Indiantown Gap National Guard Training Center in Lebanon County.
The camp is staffed by members of the PSP, the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, and the American Legion. At the conclusion of the program, three cadets will each receive a $1,000 scholarship.
Applicants must be 15 to 17 years old at the start of the camp. Candidates should be physically fit, in good health, and maintain a strong academic record. Local American Legion posts sponsor cadets, covering the registration fees for participants.
For more information, please visit State Police Youth Week, where applicants can access the online application.
PSP personnel also host regional Camp Cadet programs for youth ages 11 to 15, Hill Impact programs for individuals aged 15 to 18, Law and Leadership programs for those 18 years and older, and a Sunny Day camp for children and adults with special needs. To learn more about PSP programs in your area, contact your local Troop Community Services Officer. State Police Youth Week is one of the many programs the PSP offers that reflect the Shapiro Administration’s work to support the State Police and encourage more individuals to pursue careers as State Troopers.
For more information on the Pennsylvania State Police, visit the PSP website.