“Youth are the heartbeat of our city, embodying hope, innovation, and the relentless spirit of change. Their dreams and actions shape the vibrant future we all aspire to build. The Youth and Family Engagement Division transforms lives through dedicated service and positive engagement, empowering youth to rise, dream, and thrive."
-Commander Sharde Harris
Youth and Family Engagement Division
The Metropolitan Police Department places a strong focus on engagement with the city’s youth. The Youth and Family Engagement Division (YFED) provides programs for young people to reduce youth violence, prevent drug use, promote child safety, and improve relationships between police and young people, with a special emphasis on at-risk individuals.
In partnership with the Police Activity League and the DC Police Foundation, the YFED offers a wide range of recreational, educational, employment, personal growth, and self-empowerment programs, during the school year and over the summer.
YFED includes the following organizational units:
- Youth Investigative Branch
- School Safety Branch
- Cadet Corps Branch
Today's Youth Are Tomorrow's Adults
YFED is committed to nurturing future leaders, change-makers, and responsible citizens. Our programs help equip young people with the skills and traits to manage some of the tough issues in their lives:
- Social, cultural, and peer pressure
- Personal safety
- Bullying and violence
- Conflict resolution
- Responsible decision making
- Organizing, prioritizing, and planning
- Exploring options for college or careers
Learn more about MPD's Youth Outreach Programs.
Contact
Commander Sharde Harris
Youth and Family Engagement Division
5002 Hayes Street, NE
Washington, DC 20019
(202) 576-6788