Explorer Scouts

The Exploring Program is part of the Learning for Life career education program that 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.

Exploring is a nationwide coed program for young adults from ages 14 through 20.  The program centers on the hobby and career interests of its members.  Exploring consists of over one million members nationally, divided into groups called posts.  These posts are sponsored by local schools, businesses, or community organizations which provide equipment and other resources for use by the post members.  Most importantly, adult leaders donate their time to work with post members to provide support and advice to run the post's activities.

Exploring is for young men and women who are at the age of 14 (and have completed the eighth grade) or 15 through 20 years old.

The methods of Exploring have been carefully chosen to meet the needs of young adults.

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Voluntary association between youth and adults.  Because Exploring is voluntary, youth are receptive to new ideas, experiences, and relationships.  For the Explorer, these relationships provide a connection to new ways of thinking and acting as well as a new identity as a responsible young adult.

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Ethical decision making.  Exploring asks young people to be responsible for themselves, for a program of activities and experiences, and for other people, thereby providing numerous opportunities for youth to make effective and ethical decisions.  These opportunities are enhanced by the influence of capable adults and structured activities.

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Group activities.  Exploring activities are interdependent group experiences. Success depends on the cooperation of all.

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Recognition of achievement. Recognition might come through formal awards, but it also is achieved through the acknowledgment by peers and adults of a young person's competence and abilities.

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Democratic process.  Explorer posts provide exposure to democratic ideals and skills that are needed throughout life.

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Curiosity, exploration, and adventure.  Curiosity is encouraged and a sense of exploration and adventure is developed through new experiences that provide opportunities for youth to acquire new skills and participate in action-oriented activities.