San Mateo Police Department
Cadet Program
Police Cadets are community service volunteers aged 14 - 20 years old who help serve the community while developing critical life and leadership skills, exploring the law enforcement field, and preparing for their future academic and professional careers.
San Mateo PAL sponsors this program under the supervision of police advisors and Youth Services Officers. In addition, our cadets go on regular team-building outings and volunteer at PAL community events, public festivals, go on ride-a-longs and participate in a 9-week cadet academy. This program plays an integral role in developing our local young people to be future leaders.
Program Goals
- Positive engagement through police and community involvement
- Prepare cadets to become better citizens and community members through character development, physical fitness, leadership development and commitment to service
- Environment for youth to learn discipline, responsibility, teamwork, leadership, build confidence and instill the importance of continuing their education
- Elementary awareness and training to increase the understanding of a career in law enforcement