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Cabot police inspire during second annual Special Needs Academy

The day camp provided dozens of children a chance to experience what it's like to be in law enforcement.

CABOT, Ark. (KTHV) - The Cabot Police Department made dreams come true this morning at its Second Annual Special Needs Academy.

The day camp provided dozens of children a chance to experience what it's like to be in law enforcement.

Many parents think days like this make all the difference in their children's lives. The program is designed so there is no judgment, only support.

“Part of what we do at the Police Department is a Junior Police Academy program, but we also wanted to make sure we included everyone in our community,” said Sgt. John Todd.

Forty lucky kids got the chance to let their abilities shine Saturday morning.

“It's really amazing how they come together, the police officers and all the volunteers,” Scott Gordon added, one of many parents in attendance.

The program serves school-age children with disabilities.

“Unfortunately, some kids with special needs may never actually get to train as a police officer because of what they're diagnosis is. But at least for one day, we thought at least the police department could give them that chance” said Sgt. Todd.

Kids and their families had a jam-packed morning at Cabot’s Freshman Academy with station rotations designed to introduce them to new things and new people.

“My son wants to grow up to be a police officer so he really enjoys this. This is probably about as close as he'll ever get,” Angel Born said.

The department is practicing what they preach by cultivating an inclusive environment.

“It helps them and it helps us. They may get involved with law enforcement for one reason or another, or we may need to talk to them because they've been a victim of a crime. The more we know about them and the more they know about us, makes us a better community. And us better officers as well,” added Sgt. Todd.

Kids got to participate in activities like nerf gun stations and courses, a chance to try on special operations gear, baton and handcuff training and fingerprinting.

“For them to come out here and see other kids with special needs, to integrate with all of them and make new friends. My daughter has made tons of friends doing this. It's really a great thing for them,” said Gordon.

Kids and their families also enjoyed lunch, then a special certificate presentation congratulating them all on completing the academy.

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