The program of Exploring matches the interests of young adults with the resources and adult expertise of their participating organization. The following suggested ideas are specific elements that your Explorer post leaders might use when planning a well-balanced program around Exploring's five experience areas.
1. CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Programs that develop potential contacts that may broaden employment options. Activities that increase a youth's self-confidence and help him or her experience success at school and work are goals of Exploring.
SUGGESTED TOPICS: Investigate the immense and growing number of career opportunities in the field, such as entertainer, playwright, set designer, stage manager, makeup artist, hair stylist, camera operator, film editor, dramatics teacher, theater manager, and hundreds more. Visit a local arts school. Invite an artist to tell about their preparation and career. Earn the career achievement award.
2. LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE: Programs that help youth develop leadership skills to fulfill their responsibilities in society. Advisors should encourage activities that provide exposure to different leadership styles.
SUGGESTED TOPICS: Look at the role of the arts as economic enterprise—employment, taxes, consumer buying, or tourism. Research what cultural exchanges go on between the U.S. and other countries. When planning your trips, activities, and classes, put an Explorer in charge to help develop leadership skills. Participate in Explorer Leadership Training, Fast Start and Officers Workshop.
3. LIFE SKILLS: Programs that help youth develop physical and mental fitness. Explorer-aged youth needs activities that provide opportunities for them to experience positive social interaction.
SUGGESTED TOPICS: Have a music festival that enables post members and their families to perform. Use dance, music, film, drama, etc. Plan a weekend on a COPE (Ropes Course). Participate in the use of Life Choices interactive game on CD.
4. CITIZENSHIP: Programs that encourage youth to develop the skill and desire to help others. Posts need to provide activities that provide opportunities for youth to gain and keep respect for the basic rights of others.
SUGGESTED TOPICS: Assist your local theatrical group in the production of a play. Do a puppet show for children in an institution or hospital. Visit a retirement home to do an entertainment evening. Participate in the local food drive, blood drive, etc.
5. CHARACTER EDUCATION: Programs that help youth develop skills necessary to making ethical choices. Strong programming will involve activities that provide opportunities for fulfilling one's responsibility to society.
SUGGESTED TOPICS: Work at or take part in a park recreational program such as a band concert or play. Help establish a theater-in-the-park for your community. Have a weekend with another Explorer post. Schedule Character Education Activity scenarios available to all Explorer posts on CD.
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