MANASSAS, Va. — As the lights dimmed in the Old Town Pub, the room quieted. Over 50 sets of eyes watched the fast moving images. Teens and parents alike laughed at the antics of the trainees during the movie. Normally, trainees for the police and fire department are a little older, but over the last few weeks Manassas teens got a taste of what it’s like to work as emergency responders.
“I can’t tell you how proud I am,” said Fireman Kevin Shaffer. “These kids worked so hard. It was great to see kids from all walks of life getting to know each other and learning to work as a team.”
For several years, Schaeffer has wanted to offer a camp experience to teens in Manassas, but in years past he had not been able to gather enough support for the program. This year, however, Schaeffer worked with members of the police department and staff at the Old Town Pub to design age appropriate activities for area children.
“It was a huge success,” said Deputy Chief Wade House. “I loved seeing the change in the kids from day one to the end of camp. They learned so many skills including teamwork and interviewing techniques.”
During all of the camps, the incoming Osborn High School freshmen were required to fill out an application, go through the interview process and get trained in all aspects of the job. Students who attended police camp studied K-9 safety, mock traffic stops and all of the different positions within the police department. Fire camp included emergency medical training, hose handling and drills on radio communication. At the Old Town Sports Pub, Culinary Arts Campers learned everything from bussing tables to managing a restaurant, not to mention gourmet cooking.
“I used to be lazy,” said Sureli Cervantes, who participated in Fire Camp. “Now, I’m much more active. It also made my relationship with my mom better. I understand how to be a part of a team and that I need to do my best every day.”
Camp ended last week, but students got one last evening of fun with their mentors at Monday night’s Council meeting. Each teenager was given a certificate of completion and recognized by city council for his achievement. After the meeting, students from fire camp descended on the Old Town Sports Pub for a huge party.
“Next year, we’re going to offer more advanced training,” said Fireman Kevin Shaffer. “These kids can start volunteering for the fire department at 16 and we want them to be ready!”
