Classic cars and K-9 units share the spotlight as Police Explorers raise funds for youth law enforcement program
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — Classic cars will line up outside City Hall and the library Sunday, September 27 for the annual Cops N' Cruisers car show, a fundraiser that has kept the Police Explorer Post running since 2009. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and includes K-9 demonstrations, raffles, entertainment and food. Admission for visitors is free.
Vehicle registration is open now for owners who want to display. All proceeds go directly to the Police Explorer Post, a program that has trained young people in law enforcement skills since the 1970s.
The car show began when the Explorer Post needed money to send members on a career exposure trip to Washington, D.C. It has returned every year since as the program's primary fundraiser.
The Police Explorer Post offers young people ages 14 to 20 a structured introduction to law enforcement. Members complete modified police academy training and assist officers with parking control, traffic management, and crowd supervision at city events. They also ride along with officers and work in other roles within the department.
The program generates roughly 5,000 volunteer hours each year. In exchange, members learn leadership and professionalism while preparing for national Explorer competitions. Many go on to careers in law enforcement or public service.
The car show gives the community a chance to see restored vehicles and working K-9 units while supporting a program that has shaped hundreds of young adults over five decades. Attendees can meet officers, watch demonstrations, and enter raffles throughout the day.
The event takes place outside of City Hall and the library at 2929 Tapo Canyon Road. Parking and admission are free. Vehicle owners interested in registering can find details on the Cops N' Cruisers website.
The Explorer Post recruits year-round. Young people interested in law enforcement or public safety careers can learn more through the police department. The program emphasizes character development alongside technical skills, offering structure, mentorship, and real responsibility in a controlled environment.
For many participants, the experience becomes a turning point in how they see themselves and what they believe they can achieve. The program builds the kind of young leaders the city will need long after the car show ends and the engines go quiet.
The car show is one day. The program it supports runs all year.
