A new program that “aims to bridge the gap between our younger citizens and law enforcement” is coming to the city.

The Cranston Police Department has begun accepting applications for its Police Explorer Program, which is open to those who have completed eighth grade and are between 14 and 20 years of age. It is set to begin in the fall.

Law enforcement agencies across the country sponsor Explorer posts, which serve as a means for young people to gain experience with, and understanding of, professional opportunities in the field. There are currently Explorer posts in Warwick and Johnston, among other Rhode Island communities. The program has the backing of the International Chiefs of Police Association and the National Sheriffs Association.

“Exploring is a well-established and highly respected program that has served as a platform from which countless young adults have launched a successful career with local, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies,” reads a statement from Cranston police.

A message posted on the department’s Facebook page indicates the program will “build character, provide leadership experiences, teach basic life skills, and provide an alternative to negative influences.”

“Explorers will receive classroom instruction and participate in physical exercise and activity every other week,” the message reads. “In addition to meetings, Explorers will assist the Cranston Police Department with traffic assignments during road races or other community events. Explorers will also participate in community cleanups, soup kitchens, and community awareness programs for preventing particular crimes. Based upon an Explorer’s age, he or she may be eligible to participate in our ride-along program in which the Explorer would ride along with an officer as he responds to calls. Explorers may also attend various competitions and events throughout the New England area with other Explorer posts where they are evaluated on how well they perform at traffic stops, various scenarios…and a physical agility course.”

The City Council and Mayor Allan Fung during the city’s budget process for fiscal year 2017 supported the use of nearly $10,000 to begin the program in Cranston.

“This is a great program. When in trouble, our youth should always be running towards our police for help, not away from them. Getting them involved in community service in this venue is a great step forward,” said Council Vice President Richard Santamaria, who proposed the budget amendment to provide funding for the program.

“It was very positive for a lot of my friends who went through the program when I was growing up,” Ward 5 Councilman Chris Paplauskas said.

Through the statement announcing the program, Chief of Police Col. Michael Winquist said: “This Police Explorer program is a tremendous opportunity to increase positive interaction between our Department and the youth within our city. In addition to impressing upon students the importance of discipline, physical fitness and respect for their community, my hope is that a graduate of the program will aspire to join our department as a police officer in the near future. Thank you to City Councilman Richard Santamaria and the remaining members of the council who provided the funding to make this program possible.”

Fung said through the statement: “The Police Explorer program is a great initiative by our police department that I am proud to support. By involving our youth in a meaningful way, the program will strengthen their sense of belonging and of pride in their community. It may also provide an opportunity for a diverse group of youngsters to get an inside view into a possible career in law enforcement. I strongly encourage participation by everyone who is eligible.”

According to police, the Cranston program will run on weekday evenings during the school year. Classes and training will take place at the police training facility at 495 Phenix Ave., as well as the department’s Garfield Avenue headquarters and other locations.

Capt. Vincent McAteer, head of the department’s Office of Community Outreach, will serve as the local program’s coordinator. Those seeking additional information, or wishing to apply, may contact him at 401-477-5127 or vmcateer@cranstonpoliceri.com. A link to the application form is also available on the department’s Facebook page.