The program of Explorer posts matches the interests of young adults with the resources and adult expertise of their participating organization. Your Explorer post leaders might use the following ideas when planning a well-balanced program around Exploring's five areas of program emphasis: career opportunities, leadership experience, life skills, citizenship, and character education.
1. CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Programs that develop potential contacts that may broaden employment options. Activities that boost a youth's self-confidence and help him or her experience success at school and work.
SUGGESTED TOPICS: Investigate the total scope of skilled trades careers in industry, military, government, research, and recreation. Study opportunities and prerequisites in a variety of crafts and careers. Investigate apprenticeship programs; secure speakers on future career opportunities in trades, crafts, services, and professions; visit job sites and workplaces. Review the education, training, and experience required by various careers. Plan presentations on union training programs and study the needs of business, commerce, and industry for skilled employees.
2. LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE: Programs that help youth develop leadership skills to fulfill their responsibilities in society. Activities that provide exposure to different leadership traits.
SUGGESTED TOPICS: Learn about the history, philosophy, development, structure, activities, and goals of organized labor. Plan programs on labor relations. Study the benefits and responsibilities of union membership. Ask shop stewards, union officials, Labor Department staff, etc., to speak to the post. Participate in labor-sponsored civic and political projects. Plan programs and discussion on collective bargaining, job safety standards, and regulations applicable to unions and employers.
3. LIFE SKILLS: Programs that help youth develop physical and mental fitness. Activities that provide opportunities for youth to experience positive social interaction.
SUGGESTED TOPICS: Study workplace safety, regulations, and programs; plan programs on safety equipment and clothing; learn first aid. Learn isometric exercises that can be used at work. Secure presentation by qualified occupational safety and health authorities. Plan programs relating to mental and emotional fitness, health care, and nutrition. Study the physical skill and strength various occupations require.
4. CITIZENSHIP: Programs that encourage youth to develop the skill and desire to help others. Activities that provide opportunities for youth to gain a keen respect for the basic rights of others.
SUGGESTED TOPICS: Organize community cleanup campaigns, assist disabled or elderly people with house repairs, work with youth groups to organize sports tournaments, support local union public service programs and labor blood drives, and support the local United Way or other community projects.
5. CHARACTER EDUCATION: Programs that help youth develop skills necessary for making ethical choices. Activities which provide opportunities for fulfilling one's responsibility to society as a whole.
SUGGESTED TOPICS: Use the Learning for Life booklet Ethical Controversies. Work with local labor organizations to understand the relationship between labor and society.
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