Barnstable County Sheriff Launches New Youth Program

News release from Barnstable County Sheriff's Office.

The Barnstable County Sheriff’s Office announces a new, free-of-charge Public Safety Explorer Program for students ages 10 to 14 who may be interested in learning more about and one day entering these exciting fields. Explorers will learn about leadership, decision-making, and teamwork through interactive sessions focused on team building. Explorers will also be educated about law enforcement, public safety, and community service by members of those respective professions.

Each session lasts five days. They will be held during the winter and spring public school breaks. The first one is Feb. 17 to Feb. 21 at the Hyannis Youth & Community Center.

Throughout the week, students will meet presenters from the Barnstable County Sheriff's Office Bureau of Criminal Investigation, K9 officers, and training staff as well as police from several departments. They will get tours of the Barnstable Police Station, the Hyannis Fire Station, the Barnstable County Sheriff’s Office Regional Emergency Communications Center, and the Barnstable Superior Courthouse. They will be introduced to banking with a visit to Cape Cod 5 Bank & Trust.

“We want to show the youth of Cape Cod that there are many pathways to become leaders in the public safety field,” said Barnstable County Sheriff Donna D. Buckley. “Children need positive role models and examples of successful behavior. They also need to learn strong communication and social skills while learning to inspire others in a team environment. They will get all that and more at our Public Safety Explorers Program.”

In addition to a variety of group exercises, they will learn self-defense tactics and first-aid training. Every day will be filled with educational and group activities designed to equip the next generation with a variety of tools to be successful but also have lots of fun! Most importantly, they will meet adults who can guide them toward happy, meaningful, and productive lives.

“Investing in our youth is the most important investment we can make as public officials,” Sheriff Buckley said. “My office is committed to guiding and enriching the lives of the children of Cape Cod.”

To apply, please visit bit.ly/405giMg

We will accept applications between January 8 – January 24, 2025. Notification of acceptance will take place the week of January 27. Please email youthprograms@bsheriff.net with any questions.