Since its launch in 2014, the VPD Cadet Program has provided young people with leadership training, life skills, and a unique introduction to law enforcement. Just as the program itself has grown and evolved over time, so too has its visual identity—culminating in a brand-new logo that was just unveiled.
A logo is more than just an image; it’s a reflection of an organization’s identity, values, and purpose. The original Cadet logo, introduced in 2014, featured dark colours, steel borders, and rivets—visual elements chosen to convey strength, resilience, and durability. The shield shape referenced traditional law enforcement emblems and was symbolic of protection, expertise, and the foundations upon which the Cadet program is built.
The rivets around the shield were a particularly meaningful design choice. They represented how the program is held together by many integral parts – the VPD leadership team, VPD officers and civilian staff who volunteer their time, dedicated instructors Constable Jasmine Wong and Constable Jin Kim, operational staff and volunteers, the Cadet alumni, and also the financial support of the Vancouver Police Foundation and our generous donors. Each rivet symbolized the strength found in community and teamwork to make the Cadet program possible.
In 2019, the logo received its first refresh. The intent was to soften the logo’s appearance while preserving its core message. The update reflected a broader understanding of what the program represents: not a pathway to law enforcement careers (though we celebrate Cadets who choose this path), but a place where youth develop confidence, leadership, collaboration skills, and resilience in a supportive and inclusive environment.
As 2025 approached, a team of program leaders and creative experts revisited the logo once again. Their goal? To ensure the visual identity of the Cadet program continues to reflect its evolving mission and its alignment with the VPD’s ICARE values—Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence. The result is a modern, refreshed Cadet logo that better aligns with the broader VPD brand. The new design features revised colours, a more prominent VPD crest, and the removal of rivets—though the spirit of what they symbolize remains firmly embedded in the program’s foundation. This latest logo reinforces the program’s focus on leadership, inclusivity, and excellence, while visually connecting it more closely with the VPD’s overall identity.
This logo evolution is more than just a visual update—it’s a celebration of how far the Cadet program has come and a symbol of where it’s headed. Special thanks go to Cadet Instructors Wong and Kim, VPD Youth Services Section leadership, and all who contributed to updating the Cadet brand.
The VPD Cadet Program, proudly funded by the Vancouver Police Foundation and its generous donors, is now accepting applications from Vancouver teens entering Grade 10, 11 or 12, living in or attending school in Vancouver, to join VPD Cadets Class 12 beginning in September 2025.
The Cadet program provides teens, many of whom are vulnerable youth with high-risk backgrounds, volatile family situations, and/or are refugees, with an intensive and inspiring program that is truly life changing. Over 28 weeks from September to May, the VPD Cadet Program offers a unique opportunity for youth to participate in applied educational workshops, physical training, recreational activities, community service, and drill. They will also get an inside look at different police units, including the Marine Unit, Mounted Squad, Canine Unit, Traffic Section, and Gang Crime Unit, to understand how they work together to serve and protect Vancouver residents.
It is through all these teachings and experiences that Cadets will also learn life skills to help them become leaders in the community, assist them in navigating difficult decisions, and learn how to set and achieve goals. Inevitably, Cadets will also make lifelong friendships with fellow participants, who will become a second family.
Applications are now closed for the 2025/2026 school year.
Check back next spring for the 2026/2027 session.
Are you interested in supporting Cadet Class 12 and the VPD Cadet Program?
If your answer is yes, click here to donate.
Your gift will help continue providing this life-changing program at no cost to participants—equipping young people with the skills, confidence, and leadership experience they need to thrive.
The Vancouver Police Foundation supports programs and initiatives that fall within three streams: community outreach and engagement (including programs for women, youth and seniors); public and personal safety; and specialized equipment and technology. You can help make Vancouver safer for all by donating to the Vancouver Police Foundation.
