WAXHAW, N.C. — For almost two decades Waxhaw Police have helped transform youngsters' lives by giving them a real-life look at law enforcement through the department's explorers and cadet program.
"We teach the kids all about, yes, the police department and we also teach them things, you know, just life skills in general," head advisor Bill Joseph said.
Joseph described the program as scouting with a law enforcement twist because kids are exposed to everything from simulated traffic stops and the hierarchy of police leadership to teamwork and personal safety.
The participants range from 12 to 20 years old and meet every Wednesday from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Waxhaw Police Department.
"It teaches you how to be disciplined, and be an awesome person at the same time," explorer Alexis Henn told WCNC Charlotte.
Henn, a Union Charter Academy student, described herself as awkwardly shy and uncomfortable speaking in front of people before she achieved the rank of sergeant after spending four years in the program.
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"I can step into situations that are unknown and know that I can do things correctly and have a purpose to walk and wake up with," Henn said.
These explorers have gone on to become firefighters, military service members, engineers, and other vocations through trade schools and college.
There are other alumni like K.C. Jennings who have been recruited right into the ranks of Waxhaw's force.
Jennings joined explorers when he was 12 years old -- rising to the rank of lieutenant. The lieutenant oversees the entire chapter. He just graduated from the police academy nine months ago.
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"It was the community outreach work in the community events, interacting with the town, helping them out helping solve problems, as well as just the individual classes really helped me realize that I love to do this," Jennings said. "And I want to do this every day of my life."
Interested Waxhaw Police Department explorer applicants must have parental consent if they are under 18 years of age and must live in Union County. A one-time application fee of $90 pays for uniforms and necessary equipment for the program.
Contact Fred Shropshire at fred@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.