What is Exploring?
is Learning For Life's career education program for young men and women who are between the ages of 14 (and have completed
the eighth grade) and up until their 21st birthday. Members in this part of the program, are different
than members who are in the Explorer Club. The main difference is that the
club members are younger(club members are in grades 6 through 8). Color,
race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, ethnic background, economic status, or citizenship are not criteria for participation. Advisors are selected by the Gardner Police Department for involvement in the program. Exploring's purpose is to provide experiences to help young people mature and to prepare
then to become responsible and caring adults. Explorers are ready to investigate
the meaning of interdependence in their personal relationships and communities. The Gardner Police
Explorers are based on a unique and dynamic relationship between youth and the Gardner Police Department.
Departments or agencies 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 help youth pursue their interest in law enforcement and let it grow and develop.
It is the mission
of the Gardner Police Explorers to:
- Gain practical
experience in law enforcement
- Engage in a program of activities centered in career opportunities, life skills, service learning, character education,
and leadership experience.
- To experience positive
leadership from adults and youth and to have an opportunity to lead others.
- To learn and grow in a caring environment.
Exploring's Five Areas of Emphasis
- Developing leadership skills to fulfill
our responsibilities in society
- Providing exposure to different leadership traits
- Developing potential contacts that may broaden employment options
self-confidence and experiencing success at school and work
- Developing physical and mental fitness
positive social interaction
the skill and desire to help other
- Gaining a keen respect for the basic rights of others
make ethical choices
- Fulfilling one's responsibility to society as a whole