ILLINOIS — A recent internship experience at the Naperville Police Department has highlighted the growing importance of youth engagement in law enforcement and community-building. Brett Thompson, a student from Naperville District 203, completed a semester-long internship that provided valuable insights into public communication, self-management, and decision-making within a public safety setting.
Internship Focused on Social Media Strategy and Public Engagement
During his time at the department, Thompson worked closely with officers to analyze and enhance the police department’s social media presence. His primary goal was to improve how the department connects with the community through digital platforms.
By evaluating metrics and identifying which types of content gained the most traction, he supported the department in making informed decisions about community outreach, ensuring messages were clear, engaging, and impactful.
Developing Real-World Professional Skills
In addition to technical tasks, the internship allowed Thompson to hone essential workplace skills:
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Decision Making: Choosing which engagement strategies to focus on based on real-time data analysis
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Self-Drive: Managing tasks independently in a hybrid work setting with limited supervision
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Organization: Creating structured reports and timelines for social media audits and planning
These experiences have left a lasting impression on the intern, building confidence and preparing him for future career challenges.
Mentorship From Officers and Impact on Youth Development
Thompson extended special thanks to Officer Krakow and Chief Arres, who provided ongoing support throughout the program. Their mentorship emphasized how local police departments can foster positive relationships with youth and serve as educational spaces — not just enforcement agencies.
The full experience was shared in a LinkedIn post by the intern where he reflected on his growth and appreciation for the opportunity.
Why This Matters for Naperville Residents
Programs like this do more than provide students with internship credits — they build trust between the next generation and law enforcement. They also demonstrate how departments like Naperville PD are proactively seeking community-first solutions through digital outreach and youth development.
Encouraging young residents to get involved early not only helps build future careers but also fosters transparency, accountability, and understanding within the community.
A Model for Other Suburbs
The success of Naperville’s internship program could serve as a blueprint for other Illinois suburbs aiming to bridge gaps between public institutions and the people they serve. When students are allowed to contribute in meaningful ways, everyone benefits — from city hall to neighborhood blocks.
Have you or someone you know participated in a civic internship? How can more cities support youth learning and leadership like Naperville does? Share your thoughts with us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
