Explorer Program
What is Exploring?
Exploring is part of the Learning for Life career education program for young men and women who are 14 (and have completed the eighth grade) or 15 through 21 years old. Exploring’s purpose is to provide experiences to help young people mature and to prepare them to become responsible and caring adults. Explorers are ready to investigate the meaning of interdependence in their personal relationships and communities.
Exploring is based on a unique and dynamic relationship between youth and the organizations in their communities. Local community organizations initiate an 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.
Explorer posts can specialize in a variety of career skills. Exploring programs are based on five areas of emphasis: career opportunities, life skills, service learning, character education, and leadership experience.
What is Fire Service?
Specifically Fire Exploring provides youth’s exposure to the different aspects of being a fire fighter. Youths will interact with one another and with the professional Firefighters of their post. The post meets once a week and participates in training and drills that prepare the Explorer to pursue a career in the fire service. Explorers assist the department with special events. The Explorer Post is assigned Adult Advisors who attend all meetings, provide all training and chaperone on all Explorer related activities. These advisors are members of the Fire Department.
Career Opportunities
Develop potential contacts that may broaden employment options
Boost self-confidence and experience success at school and work
Life Skills
Build 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 responsibility to society as a whole
Leadership Experience
Acquire leadership skills to fulfill one’s responsibilities in society.
If you are interested in becoming an Explorer, email
Lt. Smith at steve.smith@groveland-fl.gov .