The Explorer Program is administered by the Tulare County Sheriff’s Department as a branch of the Boy Scouts of America. Exploring is a worksite-based program. It is part of a career education program for young men and women who are 14 through 20 years old. Some typical activities include uniformed patrol ride-alongs to observe officers at work, classes on law enforcement topics, and interacting with public during street fairs, parades, or other civic events. Exploring's purpose is to provide experiences that 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. The Sheriff’s Department has initiated a specific Explorer Post, #355, by matching our staff 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. The Sheriff’s Department Exploring Program is based on five areas of emphasis: Career Opportunities - Develop potential contacts that may broaden employment options - Boost self-confidence and experience success at school and work Life Skills - Develop 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 responsibilities to society as a whole Leadership Experience - Acquire leadership skills necessary to fulfill one's responsibilities in society - Develop a variety of leadership traits As a result, young adults involved in Exploring will gain practical knowledge of and experience in a career . The Exploreres will be engaged in a program of activities centered on career opportunities, life skills, citizenship, character development, and leadership experience to encourage the development of the whole person. These young adults will have opportunities to take on leadership roles with a chance to learn and grow in a supportive, caring, and enjoyable environment. Scholarships are also available to Explorers who chose to attend the local police academy in order to pursue a career in Law Enforcement. A number of the Sheriff’s Department personnel began their careers as explorers and have promoted through our ranks. For more information, please contact the Explorer Advisor for your area as listed below: AREA EXPLORER ADVISOR E-MAIL PHONE NUMBER Cutler, Orosi areas Deputy James Howell jhowell@co.tulare.ca.us (559)591-5810 Ivanhoe, Farmersville, Three Rivers, Exeter areas Deputy Yvonne Jaramillo yjaramillo@co.tulare.ca.us (559) 733-6220 Visalia, Tulare, Goshen areas Deputy Jaime Garza j2garza@co.tulare.ca.us (559) 733-6220 Porterville area Deputy Scott Doyal sdoyal@co.tulare.ca.us (559) 782-9650 Tipton, Pixley, Earlimart areas Deputy Rick Cerda rcerda@co.tulare.ca.us (559) 685-2666