Law Enforcement Explorers

About the Program

The Law Enforcement Explorer Program (Explorer Program) is a national non-profit organization founded and managed by active and retired law enforcement officers and business leaders dedicated to preparing young adults for careers and leadership in the public safety profession. Law Enforcement Explorer Post 380 is sponsored by the Apex Police Department (APD) and designed to familiarize explorers with the law enforcement profession and the criminal justice system.

The Explorer Program is geared towards young people who have completed the 6th grade through 20 years old and encourages our community youth to develop the necessary skills to be a public servant. In addition, the program promotes activities that provide opportunities for youth to gain respect for the basic rights of others within the community and provides them opportunities for fulfilling one’s responsibility to society.

Explorers serve in a community relations role with the police department. Explorers are in direct, one-to-one contact with law enforcement officers on a continual basis through meetings, special assignments, social functions, training, and participating in ride-alongs. Explorers, in turn, can make their public service felt among members of the community and among members of their peer group.

Training Topics

Law enforcement explorers will participate in training on topics related to their duties and other topics of interest during an Explorer Post orientation program and annual training sessions. Training topics may include, but are not limited to:

  • Law Enforcement Operations
  • Criminal Justice System
  • Crime Scene Activities
  • Traffic Enforcement
  • Crash Investigations
  • Community Policing
  • Youth Protection Training: Personal Safety Awareness Training
  • Bloodborne Pathogens and Exposure Plan
  • Police Communications (i.e., police radio, CAD system)

Explorer Requirements

  • Apply & Get Approved: Submit an Explorer application, complete required forms, and pass a background check if you are 18 or older.
  • Complete Required Training: Explorers age 18+ must finish the Safeguarding Youth online training before joining.
  • Be Ready to Participate: Once approved, new Explorers may attend meetings and activities as probationary members.
  • Act Like a Professional: Explorers are expected to follow rules, wear the uniform properly, act safely, respect others, and follow directions from advisors.
  • Show Commitment: Explorers should attend meetings and events regularly, arrive on time, and communicate with leaders if they must miss a meeting.

Meeting Information

Meetings are held on Monday nights at the Apex Police Department Training Room. Our Explorer program runs concurrent to the academic school year. While the program breaks for the summer, there are still chances to meet for special events or field trips.

More Information

If you have any questions or want to learn more and apply for the Explorer Program visit https://www.exploring.org/law-enforcement/

Or call the main Police Department line (919) 249-3460 and request to speak with an Explorer Advisor.