Explorers

Corona's Explorer Post is currently accepting applications!

The Corona Police Explorer Program is one of the oldest law enforcement Explorer Posts in the country! Overseen by dedicated Corona Police Department officers and staff, the program provides young men and women with valuable training, hands-on experience in law enforcement, and the opportunity to develop skills that will benefit them in their future careers.

The program's emphasis is not on creating "mini-police officers," but rather on developing future leaders through mentorship, teamwork, responsibility, and good citizenship under the guidance of Corona Police Department personnel.

Participants are not required to pursue a career as a peace officer to join the program. The program also introduces Explorers to the many civilian and non-sworn positions within law enforcement, allowing them to explore a variety of career paths beyond becoming a police officer. Whether interested in becoming a Police Officer, Animal Control Officer, Dispatcher, Crime Scene Investigator, Records Technician, or pursuing a career outside of public safety, Explorers gain exposure to different roles and opportunities within the department. Through these experiences, participants develop valuable decision-making, communication, teamwork, and leadership skills while serving their community.

Corona Police Explorers participate in a variety of community service activities, including assisting with traffic control, fingerprinting children, supporting community events, and engaging with the public at informational booths. Explorers may also assist department personnel with approved activities such as distributing informational flyers, supporting search efforts, and providing assistance during major community emergencies.

Corona Police Explorers are unpaid volunteers and are not issued badges, authorized to make arrests, use force, or perform duties reserved for sworn police officers. Participation in the program is voluntary and subject to the program's standards and requirements.

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Training and benefits

Corona Police Explorers receive training and exposure in the following areas: Career Opportunities, Life Skills, Citizenship, Character Education and Leadership Experience

• Explorers may earn the privilege to participate in the Corona Police Department's ride-a-long program
• Explorers are taught and expected to practice good communication skills, leadership, and get to see first hand how a modern Police Department functions in a hands on way
• Explorers attend an Explorer Academy in late July/early August
• Explorers volunteer in a minimum of six community events a year gaining insight into community interaction.
• Explorers earn valuable community service hours which greatly assist with college entry or eligibility for City employment (Cadet, CSO positions etc.)
• Provides a solid background for potential employment or legal internships
• Attend field trips to institutions such as corrections facility or the Museum of Tolerance
• Earn letters of recommendation
• Have the opportunity to promote and take on responsibility by becoming a Squad Leader, Post Sergeant or Color Guard member
• Earn recognition from our community partners
• Earn LFL service ribbons, or the Explorer of the year award.

Membership Requirements

• Be 14-20 years of age and have completed the 8th grade
• Be enrolled in High School or College
• Maintain at least a 2.00 G.P.A.
• Commit to a minimum of one year involvement
• Have good ethical character with no negative police contact (this is not a youth criminal diversion program for mandated community service)
• Comply with the Corona Police Department grooming, uniform, and behavior standards.
•  There is a substantial time commitment for our program. Explorers attend meetings weekly on Wednesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This is critical, please note this requirement as it may conflict with other activities and attendance is mandatory.
• Attend a mandatory Explorer Academy (live-in) in late July to early August, typically 7-14 days in duration.
• Attend six or more community events (parades etc.) a year. Typically on Saturdays.
• Participate and complete assigned research, memos, and reports
• Wear the Corona Police Explorer uniform with pride, be willing to learn and work in a team!

How to Apply & the Process of Becoming an Explorer

Applications for Police Explorers are accepted year-round at the front counter of the police department. However orientation and the interview process are typically held three times a year. If you have already applied to become a Corona PoliceExplorer, you will be notified shortly. The following dates are deadlines to turn in your application for each recruitment period for 2025:

January 8th, 2025

March 12th, 2025

July 23rd, 2025

If you would like to join the Corona Police Department Explorer Post #404, you are invited to:

• Complete and return an application along with a copy of your most recent report card to the front counter of the Police Department and wait for call. This may be a lengthy process (typically 4-8 weeks) because we wait for large pool of applicants before processing, please be patient. If under 18 a parent must also sign the application.
• Pass an oral interview
• Attend an orientation meeting with parents (if under 18), where the program's specific requirements are discussed. General information paperwork, rules, and waivers are provided at this orientation.
• Pass a background investigation, which may include: a home visit, questionnaire, and school check
• Attend four consecutive meetings as a recruit/observer before becoming an Explorer. During the orientation and observer process, explorers are encouraged to ask questions and see if they can maintain the commitment needed. Recruits do not need to purchase a uniform for their observer meetings. Just wear plain blue jeans, plain white t-shirt (tucked in), black basket weave style belt and sneakers.
• Explorers may have to pay a $30.00 registration/insurance fee annually

Contact Corona Police Explorer Advisors:

Officer E. Jones Elena.Jones@CoronaCA.gov

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