I attended the 2026 Whitehall Township Police Youth Law Enforcement Academy graduation June 26. Officer Matt Christman presided over this year’s inspiring program that day.

Thirty-six students graduated, and Officer Christman spoke so well about leadership that I asked him if I can quote what he said in that part of his speech. It resonated good citizenship with me.

It reminded me of all the wonderful student and adult volunteers Whitehall-Coplay Hunger Initiative is so fortunate to have. They all help us fulfill our mission of alleviating food insecurity in Whitehall and Coplay. Thank you, Matt, for all you do with the police department and Whitehall-Coplay School District.

“Over the course of this academy, you have been challenged physical, mentally and personally,” Christman said. “You’ve stepped outside of your comfort zones, learned new skills, worked as teams and represented yourselves with pride. You showed up every day, followed directions, stayed disciplined and supported one another through every activity and challenge.

“What makes this academy special is that it’s about much more than law enforcement,” he continued. “Yes, you learned about police work, leadership, teamwork, fitness, communication and responsibility. But more importantly, you learned about character. You learned that leadership is not about being the loudest person in the room — it’s about setting the examples for others. You learned that respect matters. Integrity matters. Accountability matters. And the choices you make every day define who you are becoming.

“Throughout this academy, we watched friendships form between cadets from different backgrounds and experiences,” Christman added. “We watched confidence grow. We watched young people who were hesitant on day one become leaders by graduation day. Those are the moments that make this program worthwhile.

“Cadets, whether you choose a future in law enforcement, the military, public service, business, education or any other career path, I hope you leave this academy carrying a few important lessons with you,” Christman said. “Be leaders in your school and community. Treat people with dignity and respect. Stand up for what is right, even when it’s difficult. Work hard when nobody is watching. And never underestimate the positive impact one person can have on others.”

Officer Christman and I serve on the Communities That Care Committee for WCSD. I focus on the food insecurity section for Whitehall and Coplay residents. Christman is a school resource officer from Whitehall Township Police Department. SROs are certified police officers responsible for upholding the law and are dedicated to working with the school district to ensure a safe learning environment.

WCHI has wonderful student and adult volunteers helping us with our food pantry, garden and free community meals.

If you would like to help at one of these venues, contact the following for opportunities: Sylvia at volunteerme.lee@gmail.com for our food pantry; Gwen at 610-379-6823 for our garden; and Karen at 610-730-3184 for our free community meals.

WCHI and all our outstanding volunteers are making a difference in people’s lives. You can, too!