Troopers to serve patrons at Applebee's in Lewisburg for Camp Cadet fundraising event

Francis Scarcella, The Daily Item, Sunbury, Pa.
·2 min read

Feb. 20—LEWISBURG — Patrons of Applebee's will get the chance to be served by state troopers today when the Susquehanna Valley Law Enforcement Camp Cadet program kicks off its 2024 fundraising efforts in Lewisburg.

The program, which is run by Pennsylvania State Police troopers, is entering its 12th year. The camp is accepting applications for this year until April 1.

The Susquehanna Valley Law Enforcement Camp Cadet is a 501(c)(3) program where cadets ages 12 to 15 go to Susquehanna University, Selinsgrove, from June 23-28. The camp costs about $30,000 to operate.

The cost is about $400 per week per camper, and since the camp operates exclusively on donations, fundraisers are important, troopers said.

According to Trooper Sara Barrett, the camp is valuable to the Valley and the restaurant fundraising efforts are an important part of making sure the program survives.

"All proceeds benefit Susquehanna Valley Law Enforcement Camp Cadet," Barrett said. "We are excited to partner with Applebee's in Lewisburg for this one-night event. There will be a DJ, 50/50 and a silent auction."

The event is from 5 to 9 p.m. All tips received by the celebrity servers will go directly to the Susquehanna Valley Law Enforcement Camp Cadet program. A $10 tip will get patrons a coupon toward their next dining experience at the Lewisburg Applebee's.

"It's a win-win donation," Barrett said.

In years past, cadets were able to watch a state police helicopter land, meet with troopers, exercise and get some classroom learning sessions in during the five-day camp.

"Camp Cadet is so near and dear to many people that are involved in the program and on the board of directors," Barrett said. "We spend countless hours fundraising, preparing and getting all different agencies involved so that we can educate and mold future law enforcement officers."

Barrett said troopers will conduct interviews for the applicants on April 6.

Barrett said anyone who would like to help sponsor a cadet to attend the program can also contact the state police at Milton by calling 570-524-2662.

Camp Cadet President Nate Fisher said he wanted to thank all the sponsors and donors who make the weeklong event happen.

"We couldn't have camp without them making it possible year after year," he said. "We are all looking forward to camp 2024 as our staff and volunteers have been working very hard getting ready. It's my favorite week of the year getting to be able to watch all these cadets achieve what they do in a short amount of time."

The camp is free for participants. Individuals may apply at www.svlecc.com. For information on Camp Cadet or to enter any of the upcoming golf tournament fundraisers, visit svlecc.com or call the Milton barracks at 570-524-2662.