NCSO Explorer Post advisers recognized

Niagara County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff Michael J. Filicetti recently announced Capt. Matthew Grainge and Lt. Daniel Zimmerman were recognized by the National Sheriffs' Association as the Explorer Post Advisors of the Year for 2022. Grainge and Zimmerman have been advisers to NCSO Explorer Post 2911 since 2016.

The Explorer Post is a structured, 13-week program designed to mentor young adults ages 16-20 toward a career in law enforcement. These young adults get a firsthand look at the operations of the sheriff's office and get a glimpse at what it takes to be a member of law enforcement.

Historically, the program has operated at the NCSO office in Lockport. Building upon the success of the program, an additional session was added last year, operating at the Packard Court Community Center in Niagara Falls. That allowed young adults from the area to arrange for transportation more easily to the meetings. This session is jointly operated with the Niagara Falls Police Department.

Grainge and Zimmerman are credited with creating “Building Bridges,” which helps to foster relationships between children and police officers. The program is a collaborative effort between the NCSO and the NFPD.

Filicetti said, "I am extremely proud of Capt. Grainge and Lt. Zimmerman for receiving this tremendous honor. Their commitment to the community and to mentoring young adults is unparalleled."