CLEARLAKE, Calif. – A program to foster community relationships with area youth and the Clearlake Police Department is being reactivated.
Lt. Tim Celli, the acting chief of the Clearlake Police Department, said the agency is relaunching its Explorer Program.
Celli said the program is designed to work with young people ages 14 to 21 who have an interest in the law enforcement field.
The program establishes guidelines and procedures so that members can participate in the ride-along program with police officers, according to Celli.
In addition, members can work with dispatchers, other law enforcement agencies, community members and organizations to develop skills and prepare them for the next step of their career path, Celli said.
The police explorer program is a nationally recognized career-based program that is a subsidiary through the Boys Scouts of America.
The Clearlake Police Department has had an Explorer Post in the past, Post No. 7244.
However, Celli said the post was placed on hold as some children who were involved in the program grew older and left the program. That, coupled with decreased staffing levels, made it extremely difficult to maintain and run the program.
Now that staffing levels are increasing, the department is seeking ways to increase services, Celli said.
“We believe working with our area youth is extremely beneficial,” Celli said. “Youth-based programs such as the police explorers can help provide guidance to them in making sound decisions, help them find avenues for participation in their community, as well as teach them about the successes and challenges facing law enforcement, and provide them tools for a successful career path.”
Officer Joseph Myers, who himself is an Eagle Scout, has accepted the challenge of becoming the Clearlake Police Explorer advisor, Celli said.
Celli said Myers currently is looking for children who want to participate in the program. He also is working with the department's school resource officer to help identify young people who might be interested in joining the post.
If you know of someone who is at least 14 years of age, has a grade point of average of at least 2.0 and who wants to take part in this exciting opportunity, call Officer Joseph Myers at 707-994-8251, Extension 505.
Clearlake Police Explorer Program relaunched; interested students welcome to apply
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