The reserves are volunteers. Their use is determined by the needs of the department based on services essential to the public welfare and safety. Explorers Law Enforcement Exploring is a division of the Boy Scout of America. It is designed for males and females between the ages of 15-21 years of age who have an interest in law enforcement. The Bloomington Police Department has sponsored an Explorer Post since 1972, making it one of the earliest established posts in Minnesota.
Explorers learn by doing.
Explorers also compete in state and national competitions. They have received numerous awards at each of these levels. Past national competitions have been in Washington, D.C., Flagstaff, Arizona and Boulder Colorado. New members are recruited every fall. The Department has a Chaplain Corps to serve people in emergencies and strengthen the service rendered by the police to the community.