In a heartwarming act of community service, young Chinese Americans in the Southern California area recently came together to accomplish a significant endeavor. Spearheaded by the twin brothers, David Chang and Daniel Chang, from Irvine, the Chinese American youth successfully raised funds and donated a box-type police car valued at around $100,000 to the Irvine Police Department’s Explorer Program. This contribution will provide vital support for the training and duties of the young officers in the program.
Established in 1974, the Irvine Police Department’s Explorer Program offers high school students opportunities for public service and leadership training. Participants are required to undergo physical training, study basic criminal law, assist in traffic law enforcement, and engage in specialized police courses such as K-9 units, bomb squads, and Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) operations. Following their training, these young officers, under the guidance of experienced police officers, participate in community public safety and law enforcement support missions, dedicating an average of 100 to 250 hours of volunteer service per person per year.
David and Daniel Chang joined the Explorer Program in their ninth grade of high school, and over the course of three years, they have collectively volunteered for over 1,000 hours. Previously, the brothers raised $50,000 to support the Irvine Police Department’s Chinese Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) project. Recognizing the need for a designated police car for training purposes within the Explorer Program, they once again launched a fundraising campaign, receiving enthusiastic support from the community. Organizations such as the Boya Foundation, US Leader Group, and the Southern California Universities Alumni Association also provided significant support for this initiative.
The unveiling ceremony of the new police car took place on March 4th in front of the Irvine Police Department, presided over by Chief Michael Kent. In attendance were dignitaries including Irvine Mayor Larry Agran, former Mayor Sukhee Kang, Vice Mayor James Mai, Council Members Melinda Liu and Betty Martinez-Franco, as well as about 50 Explorer Program members, their families, and community members.
In his speech, former Mayor Sukhee Kang emphasized the importance of collaboration between law enforcement, businesses, schools, non-profit organizations, and volunteer youth in building a strong network of safety within a city.
The organizers expressed that the donation of the police car will not only enhance the training and operational conditions of the Explorer Program but also demonstrate the active participation of the Chinese American community in local affairs, supporting the spirit of youth public service and leadership development.