Sheridan celebrates 2026 Youth in Policing Initiative (YIPI) graduates and program’s greatest champion

Lee Weare has dedicated more than three decades to policing in Peel Region – from frontline policing to criminal investigation to senior leadership. This summer, he received accolades for bringing his enthusiasm and dedication for policing to a group of youth exploring career options through a unique Sheridan summer program. 

Since 2022, Sheridan has partnered with Peel Regional Police (PRP) to offer the Youth in Policing Initiative (YIPI) to youth in Peel Region. The eight-week summer program helps to build relationships between youth and police while giving youth the opportunity to explore what a career in public safety and public service could look like.  

Participants work closely with both Sheridan instructors and PRP members in the classroom and in fitness sessions as well as on service projects where they develop leadership skills. There's also the chance to earn both secondary and postsecondary credits through Sheridan. 

This summer, 54 youth were chosen from over 1,200 applicants, demonstrating both the calibre and potential of the students, as well as the steady growth of the program. Four peer mentors, who were also YIPI participants last year, supported this year's cohort. 

At the heart of the Sheridan-PRP YIPI partnership is Lee Weare, Sheridan's Associate Dean of the School of Public Safety. Weare played an instrumental role in establishing the partnership in 2022, helping create opportunities for young people to experience postsecondary education, mentorship and careers in public safety.

At this summer's YIPI graduation on August 21, Weare was recognized by Peel Police with the YIPI Alumni Award, created to acknowledge his service to the program and in honour of his impending retirement from Sheridan. Weare is set to retire from Sheridan at the end of the summer. 

The award stated that “Your commitment to partnering with Peel Regional Police in support of the Youth in Policing Initiative has inspired and empowered young people while strengthening our community.” 

Peel Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah praised Weare's contribution and the unique partnership between the two organizations which allows participants to experience both an academic and practical education into policing. “Weare dedicated more than three decades to Peel Regional Police, where he served in frontline policing, criminal investigations and senior leadership as a Superintendent before bringing his experience and passion for public service to Sheridan. He has been a tremendous bridge between Peel Police and Sheridan, and a true champion for the next generation of young leaders." 

Weare acknowledged the partnership and the faculty members who supported the program, and their dedication to creating a positive learning environment. "YIPI is a great opportunity to showcase what postsecondary education looks like and the opportunities there are within the College sector for young people leaving high school," said Weare.   

While Weare will be retiring, the YIPI partnership will continue thanks to the strong foundation he has established. 

Read how YIPI grows public safety leaders through mentorship, discover Sheridan's Police Foundations program and learn more about the Youth in Policing Initiative.

Photo: Staff Sergeant Tara Farrow and Chief Nishan Duraiappah of Peel Regional Police present Sheridan's Lee Weare with the YIPI Alumni Award.