Chief Austin Smith of the Pine Bluffs Police Department is surveying his community and surrounding communities for interest in a "Law Enforcement Youth Explorers Program."

The chief has been a part of and even started similar programs at other departments where he has worked. Now he wants to know if Laramie County as well as Kimball County have an interest. He says he plans to partner with other agencies in the area if he can to grow the program beyond Pine Bluffs.

The Explorer Program is designed for youth ages 13 up to 21. The program is designed to provide students the opportunity to “explore” the Law/Law Enforcement/First Responder areas. They would have monthly meetings focused on different training topics. All youth would be trained in First Aid and CPR Certifications. You do NOT need to be interested in having a First Responder career to join. This a a great program that looks good on college resumes, with opportunities for scholarships.

The chief would like to start having meetings in the near future and asks that interested families contact him at asmith@pinebluffswy.gov or call (307) 245-3084, and leave a call back number so he may return your call.

So far, community response has been great with a number of people from both sides of the state line insisting their children would enjoy the program.