Explorer Post 917

Explorers is a young adult program for high school students. The intent of the Police Explorer Program is to educate and involve youth in police operations and to interest them in law enforcement functions. Through youth involvement they become aware of the many facets of the law enforcement career field. The program also aids them in becoming aware of the community around them and how to be involved as citizens in their neighborhood.

The focus of the Gainesville Police Explorer Post is the development and training of the youth in leadership, discipline, life management, community service, education, communications, and much more. Their participation in the program is voluntary. The members meet once a week to discuss future events and to train on a variety of topics.

Post 917 have annual City events that they are responsible for. They assist the Gainesville Police Department as extra eyes and ears during these events and activities. A few to name are Downtown Arts Festival, Spring Arts Festival, 5th Avenue Arts Festival and many more.

Post members are issued a uniform and some equipment that has been provided by Gainesville Police Department. These uniforms are worn during all events and activities that the Post performs.

To be a member of Post 917 a student must:

Complete an application and have an interview with the Post Advisor, have the consent of a parent or legal guardian, be a rising 9th grader between the ages of 15 and 20, be a resident of Alachua County enrolled in school with a GPA of 2.5 or higher, have no felony convictions. Have no misdemeanor convictions involving moral turpitude, perjury, or making false statements. Have no history of drug abuse and live a lifestyle free of illegal drug use, alcohol, and tobacco. Submit two letters of recommendation (from community leaders of no familial relation).