You've seen them at parades, fireworks shows, most large community gatherings — the ones patrolling the perimeter and stepping in as first responders when needed, but who look a little too young to be the real deal.
They're the Arapahoe Rescue Patrol, and Littleton has been lucky for the last 55 years to be the group's home. ARP is a search-and-rescue team based in Arapahoe County and composed entirely of high-school students. The patrol has provided free search, rescue and emergency services throughout Colorado since 1957.
The organization is dedicated not only to keeping the community safe, but instilling in its members the ability and desire to serve and protect, “so that others may live,” as its motto goes.
Many of those kids go on to build those skills into a career, including its current vice president, Deputy Mark Edson of the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office. He was a member from 1987 until his graduation from Littleton High School in 1991.
“The organization had such an impact on my development as a youth and where I am today that I stayed with the program as a graduate member, warrant officer, associate member and now the vice president of the board,” he said. “I have loved seeing the kids come in as young timid freshmen, and leave the team as confident leaders, ready to take on the world.”
Edson hopes the community will show its support for ARP by celebrating during its annual fundraiser, “55 Years and Searching for More,” 5:30-8:30 p.m. Oct. 10 at Columbine Country Club, 17 Fairway Lane in Columbine Valley, off South Platte Canyon Road.
“We incur enormous expenses while providing our services to the public free of charge,” said Edson. “These expenses include wear and tear on team vehicles, fuel, communications and rescue equipment, and insurance for our members. There is never a charge for search and rescue services and we depend solely upon the generosity of our community to support our organization.”
Attendees will enjoy a strolling buffet, cash bar and silent auction.
For more information, visit www.arapahoerescue.org or e-mail auctioncoordinator@arapahoerescue.org.
