Explorer Program

Description of the Program

The Hamden Police Explorer Program is for young adults between the ages of 14-21 years of age who are interested in learning more about law enforcement. The program prepares these young adults to become mature, caring responsible citizens. It is also an excellent opportunity to learn and actually experience all aspects of police work. Explorers form unique relationships with trained and certified police officers as they are exposed to many facets of law enforcement. These areas include responsibilities of a police officer, forensic science, investigation techniques, self-defense and much more. Explorers are invited to participate in our ride-along-program in which they will experience routine calls for service as well as learning how to interact with the community. Explorers will learn proper radio procedures, how to write reports, and how to effectively interact with all types of citizens in the community. Explorers will also assist officers in a variety of situations including traffic direction and community events.

Goals of the Program

The primary goal of the Hamden Police Explorer Post 290 is to expose young adults to a career in law enforcement. Members are educated on all aspects of the law enforcement profession. The Hamden Police Explorer Post 290 provides a positive environment for youths to learn. Members also learn and develop skills such as responsibility, leadership, teamwork and the importance of volunteering within your community. Members will work alongside sworn members of the Hamden Police Department as well as with members of the community. Members are provided with classroom instruction, practical skills scenarios and they also participate in physical fitness training. All instruction is performed by qualified persons and is scheduled by the sworn officer in charge of the Hamden Police Explorer Post 290.

Requirements for Membership

Membership applications are accepted twice per year, during the months of September and January. Applications can be picked up at the Hamden Police Department or by visiting the department’s website. Members are required to maintain a “C” average while attending school. Failure to do so will result in the member being placed on probation, suspended or terminated from the post if deemed appropriate by the head advisor. A member may request to be excused from all post meetings and events until the grade average rises to a “C” average or higher. No member will be penalized for their absence during that time. Applicants must be of the highest moral character, and successfully pass a background check.