Exploring

Exploring is a career education program for young men and women, ages 14 (and have completed the eighth grade) through 20. Exploring offers youth the opportunity to "explore" different career paths by joining an Explorer post and meeting regularly with select professionals at a specific business/organization. The professionals serve as mentors and demonstrate first-hand what their area of specialty entails. This offers Explorers the chance to discover what career paths spark an interest for them. In addition to discovering career interests, Explorers gain by further developing leadership and diplomacy skills. The business/organization benefits by strethening community bonds and investing time and effort in potential future employees. 

Exploring is based on a unique and dynamic relationship between youth and the organizations in their communities. Local community organizations initiate a specific Explorer post by matching their people and program resources to the interests of young people in the community. The result is a program of activities that helps youth pursue their special interests, grow, and develop.

Exploring

Exploring programs are based on five areas of emphasis: career opportunities, life skills, citizenship, character education, and leadership experience.

Career Opportunities
Develop potential contacts that may broaden employment options
Boost self-confidence and experience success at school and work

Life Skills
Develop physical and mental fitness
Experience positive social interaction

Citizenship
Encourage the skill and desire to help others
Gain a keen respect for the basic rights of others

Character Education
Help make ethical choices
Fulfill one's responsibilities to society as a whole

Leadership Experience
Acquire leadership skills necessary to fulfill one's responsibilities in society
Develop a variety of leadership traits

Young adults involved in Exploring will
Gain practical knowledge of and experience in a career
Engage in a program of activities centered on career opportunities, life skills, citizenship, character development, and leadership experience to encourage the development of the whole person
Have opportunities to take on leadership roles
Have a chance to learn and grow in a supportive, caring, and enjoyable environment

Explorer posts can specialize in a variety of career skills, including the following:

• Arts & Humanities
• Aviation
• Business
• Communications
• Engineering
• Fire Service
• Health
• Law Enforcement
• Law & Government
• Science
• Skilled Trades
• Social Services