Richardson youth interested in learning more about the inner workings of the Richardson Police Department are invited to become part of the department’s Explorer Program and learn what it is like to serve and protect.
“The Richardson Police Explorer Program is a great community outreach program because we’re able to reach the youth,” said Officer Raul Reyes, one of the Post’s advisors. “The program emphasizes career opportunities, life skills and citizenship.”
The explorers meet weekly at the Richardson Public Safety Campus and participate in various indoor and outdoor activities, from routine traffic stops and drug investigation scenarios to active shooter situations and learning how to deescalate possible dangers.
“We do have a portion that is learning the material, but we engage in [realitybased scenarios] that real police officers get themselves involved in,” said Explorer Cameron Conard. “You learn to use the skills that you learned in the class to navigate the situation.”
In addition to learning law enforcement skills, Explorers also learn skills that will help them later in life, whether they have a career in law enforcement or some other field. “I [have] learned how to take charge and lead my team the best way possible,” said Explorer Princesa Ibarra.
“[I’ve learned] to step back and allow them to grow themselves so they can lead.”
Participants are between the ages of 14-21, and several have gone on to become Richardson police officers, including one former Explorer who was sworn in to the Richardson Police Department this summer.
Every year, Richardson’s Explorer Post 761 competes with other explorers around the country on their newly learned skills. They also get to network with other law enforcement agencies such as the FBI, the CIA, ATF, and the United States Secret Service. This summer, the post traveled to Gatlinburg, Tenn. to compete in the Public Safety Cadet’s Summer Showdown.
Visit www.richardsonpolice.net for more information on the program and to learn how to get involved.
