DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — A summer program in Decatur is aimed at inspiring the next generation through civic engagement, career readiness, and community development.
The Jerry J. Dawson Civic Leadership Institute (DCLI) is based in Macon County at the Macon County Law Enforcement Training Center. The program offers hands-on experiences in areas ranging from public safety to healthcare, politics, entrepreneurship, and education.
Funded by the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, DCLI gives local students a closer look at first responder careers, all while teaching them skills they can use in their community.
"Within this program, what these students have been able to encompass is something that many other students around the nation will not be able to experience," said Johnathan Flukes, DCLI Summer Experiences Coordinator.
DCLI encourages Decatur Public School District students—high school age—to pursue careers in fields that directly impact their communities. This summer, 13 students and three interns have signed up to participate in the program for the entire month of June.
"It's definitely been inspiring," said Jameson England, intern.
England just graduated high school and has his sights set on a future career in EMS and EMT. He said he eventually wants to enter the fire service. On Tuesday, the Decatur Fire Department gave students a first look at rappelling in confined spaces, using drones, and suiting up for the dive team.
"I was just so excited to have the opportunity to come explore and see new things—stuff that most people won't be able to see."
The program bears the name of Jerry J. Dawson—Macon County's former sheriff and long-serving public official who championed fairness, mentorship, and rehabilitation throughout his 30-year law enforcement career and later as an instructor.
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