The Merced Police Department Explorer Scout Program is moving in to it’s 4^th year since being re-established in June 2000. Presently, the program has 34 members, both men and women, ages 14 to 21 years old. The program is coordinated by Officer Richard Macchia and aided by Officer Robert Luna, Officer Dave Riviere and Officer Bobby Chapman.

The goal of the Explorer Program is to expose young people to career opportunities in the Criminal Justice field. The Explorer must complete a 24 hour academy upon joining and are involved in ongoing training throughout their involvement in the program. After completion of the academy the Explorers are eligible to go on ride-alongs with department Officers.

One of the most important components of the program is Community Service . The Explorers have several projects such as Kiddie Land at Applegate Park, Camp Green Meadows Adopt-a-Cabin Summer Project, AT&T Pro Am Golf Tournament, McLane Pacific Bike Race, Beetlejuice Haunted House and The Blues Festival that are annual projects. The Explorers also will work various events in the city such as traffic control at parades, bike races and walkathons. This year for the first time, The Post helped with the Merced County Election process. On average each explorer will accumulate 250 - 800 hours per year in community service time. The Post also has “fun” outings such as ski trips, camping, trap shooting, and BBQ swim parties. Each year the Post hosts an Awards Banquet and Christmas party.

We are proud that many of our past Explorers have pursued a higher education and are currently attending colleges both local and away. The program stresses the importance of an education. Even if the Explorer does not go into the Criminal Justice field, the training and experience he/she receives from the program will help prepare them for other endeavors in life.