The McLennan RCMP detachment is teaming up with area businesses in an effort to reward youth for making positive decisions in life. Cst. Marek Jakabek says the primary thrust behind the introduction of the new four-month long pilot project is to make the first encounter between an RCMP officer and young person a positive and enjoyable experience. “Too often, the first encounter a young person has with police is in a situation where there is a problem or related criminal matter,” he explains. “Our aim as a detachment is to effectively reduce those instances by improving relations and rewarding youth for positive decision-making habits in life.” The pilot project, which is being launched the first week of October, will see RCMP officers handing out redeemable coupons to youth who they witness making positive choices. That, Cst. Jakabek, says can include anything from properly disposing of a piece of trash, to wearing a bicycle helmet or anything else an RCMP offer feels is applicable and deserving of a reward. “It gives police officers a good platform to approach young persons in the community and recognize their efforts while getting to know them by engaging in a conversation,” Cst. Jakabek adds. Youth who RCMP feel are making positive choices will be presented with redeemable coupons (for products such as candy bars, chips, pop and movie rentals) at local merchants. To date, five businesses have agreed to participate in the pilot project by agreeing to donate the merchandise. They include Lakeview (Bigway) Foods, Petey’s Movies & More and Kimiwan Konfectionary in McLennan as well as Falher Co-op and IGA. Cst. Jakabek says having the involvement of area businesses clearly demonstrates their concern with the types of choices youth are making while encouraging them to make positive choices. Additional businesses interested in participating in the project are asked to contact Cst. Jakabek at the McLennan RCMP detachment by calling 780-324-3086.