Bensalem Township Residents:
Bensalem Township Residents:
The Bensalem Township Police Department is seeking volunteers to serve on our Youth Aid Panel. The Youth Aid Panel provides an alternative to juvenile court for first-time, non-violent juvenile offenders. The panel meets once per month—on the second Tuesday, third Wednesday, or fourth Thursday—to hear cases. Volunteers serve as a team of informal judges who determine how a juvenile offender can repair the harm caused by their delinquent act.
This program has been active in Bensalem for many years, and many of our volunteers have served on the panel for 10+ years. Volunteer openings on the panel are rare. After completing four training classes, the commitment consists of one meeting per month and occasional phone contact with juveniles. This is a rewarding opportunity that is not time-consuming. Please review the requirements below.
If you are interested, please visit www.bucksyouthaid.org and complete the application.
Requirements:
- Must be 18 years of age or older with no criminal history.
- Able to obtain Pennsylvania clearances for working with children (no disqualifying arrests or child abuse history).
- Must be of good moral character, as verified by a police records check, driving record, etc.
- Able to work collaboratively with a group to reach consensus on appropriate obligations for offenders.
- Able to communicate professionally with offenders and their families.
- Available on the second Tuesday, third Wednesday, or fourth Thursday evening each month.
- Able to attend the training series for new members (location to be determined).