BRADENTON -- The Bradenton Police Department has a pro?gram that offers opportunities for local youth to gain first-hand knowledge of law enforcement.
Chartered by the Boy Scouts of America, the Explorer Post is a blend of scout troop, ROTC, and police academy that emphasizes career opportunities, life skills, citizenship, character education and leadership experi?ence.
Explorers participate in community service events, assist in decision-making for expendi?tures, raise funds, elect officers, learn and practice Robert's Rules of Order, attend train?ing, travel, compete against other posts in law enforcement scenarios and more. The youth have the opportunity to learn First Aid and CPR/AED, join the Honor Guard, learn gun safety and learn to safely and accurately shoot pistols and rifles.
Members must be ages 14 - 20 and have suc?cessfully completed the 8th grade. They must maintain a minimum of a C average in school with no failing grades. They must have no criminal history, and be of good moral and ethical standing.
The post meets 7-9 p.m. every Tuesday at the Bradenton Police Department District II sub?station at 1404 14th St. W. Potential members are invited to attend three meetings prior to submitting an application for membership.
For more information or to make arrange?ments to observe a meeting and meet the Explorers, please contact Sgt. LJ Millard at lj.millard@cityofbradenton.com or (941) 741-3041.