Bedford Police Department Launches New Paid Internship Program
Law Enforcement Education and Development Program (L.E.E.A.D) will introduce youth
to careers in public safety.
Contact:
Bedford Police Department Virginia Career Works – Central Region
PIO Travis Thomas Tim Saunders
(540) 587-6011 (434) 856-2713
Bedford, VA — The Bedford Police Department (BPD), in partnership with Virginia Career Works –
Central Region, is proud to announce the launch of its new paid internship program for teenagers
called Law Enforcement Education and Development Program (L.E.E.A.D.).
The L.E.E.A.D Program is designed for eligible youth, ages 16 - 19, who are facing barriers to
employment and are interested in learning about and experiencing a career in law enforcement,
while earning money that will go toward their education and other needs. Participants will spend up
to 320 hours participating in hands on activities such as patrol ride alongs, crash investigations,
control tactics, evidence collection and processing, community service, and much more.
“We want to build strong, trusting, and lasting relationships with our youth. This unique program will
help young people develop job skills and a sense of community,” said Police Chief Ronnie Lewis. “It
is our hope that we can inspire young people to want to pursue a career in law enforcement.”
The program will be coordinated by BPD staff and officers, who will provide hands-on activities and
interactive learning sessions about local police operations. Virginia Career Works – Central Region
will work closely with BPD to refer eligible youth for the program and provide financial assistance
and career exploration guidance as needed through the federal Workforce Innovation and
Opportunity Act (WIOA).
“We are thrilled to connect our workforce development programming with young people who want to
contribute to their local community through law enforcement and helping others,” said Traci Blido,
Executive Director of Virginia Career Works – Central Region.
“Providing hands-on work experience is a great way to help young people learn about a career,” said
Keith Cook, Director of Workforce Operations for Virginia Career Works – Central Region. “We hope
this partnership with the Bedford Police Department will inspire youth in our region to pursue careers
in public safety and help address the critical need for workers in the law enforcement field.”
To be eligible for the Bedford Police L.E.E.A.D Program students must:
Be at least 16 and under 20 years of age
Have at least a 2.0 grade average in school
Maintain a good driving record - if applicable
Pass a criminal background check and Oral Review Board
Have no prior arrest record
Be of good moral character and not engage in the use of drugs or alcohol
Have an interest in learning about law enforcement and in serving the community
BEDFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT
Respect, Integrity, Courage, Teamwork, Innovation
To learn more about the program and become a participant, contact Virginia Career Works – Central
Region by emailing info@vcwcentral.com or call 434-944-7044.
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