Naperville may have a small-town feel, but it fits the description of a bustling city. Naperville boasts nearly 150,000 residents and 39 square miles of residential, commercial, recreational and industrial development, making it the fourth largest city in the State of Illinois.
Keeping a city of this size safe is a big job. We are certainly up to the task, but we’re also thrilled to say we’re not doing it alone. This month, the Naperville Police Department is highlighting how our existing volunteers support us in making our community “A Safer Naper.”
Did you know the Naperville Police Department has one of the oldest Police Explorer programs in Illinois? Law Enforcement Exploring is a national program providing young men and women ages 14-21 the opportunity to “explore” a career in law enforcement. Currently, we have 15 young adults increasing their awareness of the criminal justice system through training, practical experience and other activities here at NPD.
For our more mature residents with an interest in community policing and volunteering, we have the Naperville Community Radio Watch (CRW) group that was established in 1982. CRW members receive specialized training from police department personnel and act as additional eyes and ears in the community. CRW members learn the basics of criminal and civil law, participate in ride-alongs with patrol officers and receive dispatch training. They may also provide additional police department supervised security at special events including parades, triathlons, city fairs and activities.
From the Police Explorers and CRW’s to our Chaplain’s Association, Community Access Naperville and Naperville 203 Connections volunteers and our civilian tour guides, we are extremely fortunate to have community support from so many residents. These volunteers certainly help make our community “A Safer Naper.”
Visit www.naperville.il.us/asafernaper to learn about becoming a member of the Police Explorers or Community Radio Watch programs and to read more about the contributions of the Chaplain’s Association, Community Access Naperville, Naperville 203 Connections and civilian tour guides.
Until next month, Stay Aware and Stay Safe.