Upper Township Rescue Squad is host for local middle-schoolers
UPPER TOWNSHIP — The Squad 21 Youth Summer Camp will return in June for its fourth year, and registration is now open to local middle-schoolers.
Hosted by the Upper Township Rescue Squad in partnership with Cape Assist and other local first responder agencies, the free program offers an engaging and educational experience for local youth interested in learning about emergency services, teamwork and leadership, according to John Brittin, chief of Upper Township Division of EMS.
The camp usually includes a field day that features all of the local fire companies, a beach day and a water park day. The program gives participants the opportunity to experience some great local attractions that Cape May County has to offer. Past experiences have included Morey’s Piers in Wildwood, Pirate Voyages in Ocean City and Strathmere beach.
It will run from June 29 through July 2 (Monday–Thursday) and is open to students entering sixth, seventh or eighth grade for the 2026–2027 school year, with preference given to township residents.
Applications must be submitted by May 15, with acceptance notifications to be sent via email by May 26. A mandatory parent meeting for accepted applicants is set for the evening of June 26. More information can be found at upperrescue.com/summercamp.
Brittin said this year’s camp has been scheduled slightly later than usual due to an extended school year caused by winter weather. Additionally, the program has been condensed to four days to allow EMS personnel and volunteers time to prepare for and support the township’s annual Independence Day celebration at Amanda’s Field.
“Squad 21 Youth Summer Camp continues to provide a unique opportunity for young people to connect with local first responders, build confidence and gain valuable life skills through hands-on activities and mentorship,” Brittin said.
Brittin said the program is a great way to find future first responders for the township’s volunteer fire companies and Division of EMS and that children of area first responders often take part.
“It is a family business and we are always happy to see the next generation get involved. First responders are always recruiting,” Brittin said, noting the rescue squad recently started a junior program that allows 16- and 17-year-olds to ride along with the ambulance crew and see what the EMS field is all about.
“We definitely welcome any interest in the field, but the main goal of this camp is to make an impact on the kids at a community level,” Brittin said. “There are definitely no strings attached. Whether you want to be an EMT/firefighter when you grow up or you want to be an accountant, electrician, dancer or anything else out there, you are welcome here.”
He said the goal is to have a positive influence on youths, help them navigate the early teen years and equip them with the skills to do so.
“It is also a good way for us to get to know community members better,” Brittin said, noting one former camper had a family member who was in an accident.
“When we got to the scene, a few of us knew the kid and the family because of the camp. Having that rapport beforehand puts the family at ease and gives us a head start in taking care of them to the best of our ability,” he said.
The Squad 21 Youth Summer Camp relies on donations to keep it free to participants. The camp has provided admission to activities, transportation and lunch most days. To make a tax-deductible donation to the camp, send a check to “Upper Township Rescue Squad” with “Kids Camp” in the memo to 2028 Tuckahoe Road, Petersburg, NJ 08270. Donations can also be made via Venmo to the user @squad21.Squad” with “Kids Camp” in the memo to 2028 Tuckahoe Road, Petersburg, NJ 08270. Donations can also be made via Venmo to the user @squad21.
– By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff
