Dayton, Ohio – The Dayton Police Department has officially launched its annual Outdoor Youth Adventures program for the third consecutive summer in an effort to support young people facing the effects of trauma. Created in 2022 by Major Brian Johns, commander of the Investigations Division, the eight-week initiative continues to grow thanks to overwhelming community backing and its positive impact on participants.
Designed specifically for youth who have endured stressful or traumatic experiences, the program gives them an opportunity to find healing and connection through outdoor activities and engagement with local law enforcement officers. By combining nature-based education with recreation, the initiative hopes to ease post-traumatic stress and anxiety while helping participants build lasting relationships with both peers and Dayton Police personnel.
Healing Through Adventure and Friendship
The program kicked off its first week with a trip to Mike’s Bike Park, where participants learned the basics of bike riding and safety. As part of the outing, every child received a free pair of shoes, generously donated through the nonprofit organization Shoes for the Shoeless.
Over the next several weeks, youth enrolled in the program will take part in a wide array of exciting and physically engaging events, including basketball games at the University of Dayton Arena, archery lessons at Olde English Outfitters, and a hands-on tour of the Dayton Fire Department Academy that will include a rappelling demonstration.
Other upcoming highlights include bass fishing, kayaking on the river with the help of Whitewater Warehouse, horseback riding at Sarajevo Stables, and learning the game of pickleball. The summer experience will wrap up with a special outing to a Dayton Dragons baseball game, provided through support from the City of Dayton.
Community Partnerships Drive the Program Forward
“The goal of the program is to provide young people an educational outlet that includes the outdoors and nature to help them cope with the post-traumatic stress and anxiety in their everyday lives,” organizers shared. Through these experiences, youth are not only learning new skills but also finding support and understanding among others who have walked similar paths.
The success of this program wouldn’t be possible without the contributions of many local partners who are sponsoring events, meals, and supplies. These include the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Dayton Fire Department, Miami Valley Crime Stoppers, the CODE Foundation, Benji’s Bakery, Whitewater Outfitters, University of Dayton, Mike’s Bike Park, Altafiber, KTC Quail Tennis Club, Shoes for the Shoeless, The Good Guy Group, High Acre Farms, and Kona Ice.
By offering a meaningful, healthy escape and an avenue for building resilience, the Outdoor Youth Adventures program is not only enriching the lives of young participants but also reinforcing the Dayton Police Department’s ongoing commitment to community care and youth engagement.
