Buffalo Police Explorers accepting recruits to join 12-week police youth academy program

Now through April 4, the Buffalo Police Explorers program is looking for a new group of participants to join a 12-week-long police youth academy program at the Larkin Commerce Center in downtown Buffalo.

The program starts April 4. It will introduce recruits to a custom-created youth academy program, which organizers said, “strengthens the relationship with Buffalo's diverse community, and passes on leadership qualities that inspire and motivate young, disciplined individuals into leadership positions.”

The recruits are mentored by Buffalo Police Department volunteers every Tuesday. Through the 12-week program, “the Explorers will get first-hand experience involving several real-life situations, creating an understanding and awareness around mental health, CPR, and the criminal justice system and its process. In addition, they will get an opportunity to meet leaders within the judicial system and other prominent leaders within the field.”

Executive Director Niko Davis joined the Buffalo Police Department in 2020 and stepped into this role in 2022. He has successfully graduated from one cohort of Buffalo Police Explorers and said he is looking forward to continuing to make an impact in the city he was born. 

"I am very fortunate to work with kids from all walks of life and see them grow and evolve as responsible and caring young leaders,” Davis said.

Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia supports the Buffalo Police Explorers and the police youth academy program.

"Buffalo Police Explorers is doing a great job engaging young adults from the City of Buffalo where they learn how to serve and protect,” he said. “This program is essential, as it strengthens our bond as a ‘City of Good Neighbors.’ It also educates our young community about the Buffalo Police Department, and can awaken them to a career within the Buffalo Police Department as they evolve into adults.”

All youth living in Buffalo can apply at the organization's website, buffalopoliceexplorers.com, or via the following link: http://www.bpdny.org/FormCenter/Buffalo-Police-Department-4/BPD-Explorer-Application-52.

About Buffalo Police Explorers

Buffalo Police Explorers foster a relationship between Buffalo Police Department officers and youth in the City of Buffalo by providing opportunities that promote leadership, confidence, self-discipline and community service, all while developing an awareness of the purpose, mission and objectives of law enforcement and the Buffalo Police Department. Learn more at buffalopoliceexplorers.com.