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Volunteer Opportunities

Law Enforcement Explorer Volunteer

Volunteer explorers

What is a law enforcement explorer?

The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to involving the young citizens of the community in programs that instill pride, increase self-esteem, and teach self-awareness. The Law Enforcement Explorer Program is designed to provide our youth with these skills. It provides an opportunity to participate in valuable community service activities, making Whatcom County a safer place for all of its citizens.

Duties of an Explorer:                                       

The WCSO Explorer Program is chartered through the Boy Scouts of America and is designed for young men and women between the ages of 16 and 21, who are interested in law enforcement training, community service, and recreational programs.

Each law enforcement explorer must serve a minimum of 16 hours each month on assigned duties. This may include ride-alongs with patrol deputies and regularly scheduled meetings and training sessions. Explorers participate in numerous community service events throughout Whatcom County, including parking control, crowd control, and criminal investigations. The WCSO Explorers meet twice monthly to discuss upcoming events and to undergo training updates.

As volunteers, Explorers are not paid for their work. Participants in the Explorer program receive no compensation other than the deep sense of pride one attains from participating in the law enforcement process.

Training:                                                              

An Explorer has the opportunity to learn first hand about various aspects of law enforcement. They are required to attend a basic and 4 advanced academies. Explorers from across the state meet twice a year to participate in the 6 day academies. Explorers receive instruction in such topics as:

  • Accident Investigation
  • Firearms
  • Arrest Techniques
  • Patrol Procedures
  • First Aid
  • Crime Scene Investigation
  • Traffic Stops
  • Traffic Control

Minimum Requirements:                          

  • Must be a United States Citizen
  • Must be age 16 through 21 years old
  • No previous felony convictions, other criminal activity will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Sheriff Department Volunteer Information


For more information than what is available here on our web site, contact the volunteer service coordinator during regular office hours at (360) 676-6650 or send e-mail to Al Cheesman at Acheesma@co.whatcom.wa.us

Other volunteer activities are also available through the Sheriff's Office and the Division of Emergency Management: