P.A.L. basketball skills camp in action

Camp director Bill Square says the Bibb County sheriff's office started this camp because they want kids to feel safe around law enforcement.  

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- 41NBC visited the Rosa Jackson Recreation Center to see the Bibb County P.A.L. basketball skills camp in action. 

The summer basketball camp provides a free structured environment where deputies and local law enforcement can build positive relationships through sports.  

Camp director Bill Square says the Bibb County sheriff’s office started this camp because they want kids to feel safe around law enforcement.  

“It all starts with community engagement. We have to go into these communities and show our faces. So, they can connect a relationship with the police officer. And I think it’s working,” said Square. 

Square says they have enough staff to give each child individual attention.  

“They will divide the kids up by age; the little guys, middle guys, and then the bigger boys. We also have girls that attend this camp. and there also in that same mix,” said Square. 

He explains the main goal of this summer camp is to show children that law enforcement is here to protect and serve. 

“To have a better understanding of law enforcement, because were not all bad guys. We have a lot of good guys and law enforcement that wants to see the community in a positive way; and wants it to move in a positive way. And our best bet is to get the kids…always get the kids,” said Square. 

There will be another camp session taking place next week, June 8th through the 12th from 8:00am until 2:00pm. There are still available spots to sign up.