Explorer Post Advisor of the Year

The 2012 Law Enforcement Explorer Post Advisor Award winner is Deputy Rich Bennett of the Dane County Sheriff’s Office in Madison, Wisconsin.

 

Since assuming responsibility for the Explorer program in 2009, Deputy Rich Bennett has taken a personal interest in not only the program but also the people involved in the program. Deputy Bennett has invested hundreds of hours of his own time into making Explorer Post 2125 one of the elite Posts in the state of Wisconsin.

 

Deputy Bennett has high expectations of the Explorers and to that end he has rewritten the Explorer Policy and Procedures to comply with the Learning for Life Guidelines manual and re-defined rank structure and job duties. One of his priorities has been a stronger commitment to community service, which has helped build strong relationships with many community and law enforcement organizations. 

 

The Explorer Post is self-reliant for operating costs. Since 2009, Deputy Bennett has been instrumental in helping raise approximately $18,000 through fundraisers and donations. 

 

Testimony of his tireless dedication and involvement is apparent in the performance of the Post at competition, during volunteer events and their work ethic in attending meetings and training sessions.

 

In 2011, the Post was recognized for many accomplishments including a nomination for ‘Auto Parker of the Year’ and the privilege of being in charge of VIP parking at EAA airshow in 2011. They also received a Gold Pin Award for the Presidential Volunteer Service Award for having 1500 plus volunteer service hours. The Post was recognized by the Madison Civics Club and was awarded a $1,000 grant for their outstanding volunteerism involvement in community service activities.

 

Deputy Bennett has also prepared the Post well for Competitions as they received first place at Hartford and second place at Muskego and had an excellent showing at the bi-annual National Law Enforcement Explorer Competition in Atlanta, GA. 

 

Deputy Bennett truly believes in his team and has taken a personal interest in helping make them successful with the rest of their lives. He has performed mock job interviews, helped complete college applications and provided references for numerous Explorers seeking scholarships and jobs. It is an understatement to say that Deputy Bennett has had a positive influence on these young men and women’s lives.