HACC, Central Pennsylvania's Community College, is one of the largest public safety training organizations in our region. Across all sectors of public safety, including law enforcement, fire and rescue and emergency medical services, there is a need for new, diverse employees.

Many recruits of HACC's public safety programs are high school students; however, we believe it is essential to spark interest in prospective students much earlier. A junior first responder club will allow HACC to recruit, engage and provide a possible career pathway for students in middle school or early high school. During this crucial time when students are exploring potential careers, the club will expose students to all facets of public safety. Students also may have opportunities to earn some credentials!

We want to spark interest through engaging students in hands-on, experiential learning related to law enforcement, fire and rescue and emergency medical services. Some example include:

• Engaging with continuing HACC students in public safety programs and with current public safety professionals
• Learning Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), first aid, self-defense and situational awareness
• Participating in team building and leadership activities
• Using a fire extinguisher

By involving students in experiential learning and offering these opportunities, the club potentially will attract underserved and underrepresented students to public safety programs. Our community will benefit from having a more diverse future workforce. Please give to this program today. Thank you!