The Probation Explorer Program (PEP) is a young adult leadership and career exploration program sponsored by the Orange County Probation Department. Participants learn leadership, teamwork, community service, professionalism, and the role probation plays in public safety and positive change.
leaderboard
Leadership
Body
PEP helps youth learn real leadership through practice, teamwork, and mentorship.
people
Community Service
Body
Explorers contribute to their community and gradually move from participating to helping plan and...
school
Mentorship
Body
PEP Advisors serve as supportive mentors who coach youth and help them take increasing...
badge
Professionalism
Body
Participants learn professionalism through communication, dependability, teamwork, and respectful...
stairs
Career Exposure
Body
Explorers gain insight into courts, probation operations, rehabilitation, and public‑service careers...
Media Reference
Image
join us today!.png
Who Can Apply?
Body
Age 14-16, or 17 and currently a sophomore
Completed 8th grade
Minimum 2.0 GPA
Must not be failing any classes
Good conduct and character
Ability to participate in program activities
No significant criminal background
No significant adverse school reports
Parent or guardian consent required
What Explorers Experience
Body
Explorers participate in supervised, educational experiences that help them develop communication, teamwork, and leadership skills, including:
Leadership and professional‑development training
Team‑building and mentoring
Community service projects
Guest speakers and career panels
Court and probation exposure
Department and community events
These experiences allow youth to practice real skills and understand how public‑service systems work.
Leadership Journey
Body
Rank I: Recruit Explorer
Entry-level rank for new participants who have not yet completed the Orange County Law Enforcement Explorer Academy (OCLEEA).
They focus on orientation, core training, and learning foundational skills.
Rank II: Probation Explorer
Earned after completing OCLEEA.
Explorers actively participate in training, activities, community service, and begin demonstrating consistency and professionalism.
Rank III: Senior Probation Explorer
A leadership rank where participants begin supervising small groups, mentoring recruits, assisting with operations, and modeling program values.
Rank IV: Supervising Probation Explorer
A higher leadership role supporting program operations, inspiring peers, coordinating training, maintaining morale, and managing assigned groups.
Rank V: Director Probation Explorer
The highest youth leadership rank in PEP.
Directors mentor others, coordinate with Advisors, lead major program functions, and set the example for professionalism and conduct.
Probation Explorer FAQ
Body
Leadership development
Community service experience
Career exploration
Mentorship opportunities
Personal growth
Professional skills development
Body
Wednesdays Typically, 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Body
No prior experience is required
Training is provided through the program
Body
Sports participation can be discussed with advisors
Leave options and accommodations may be available when appropriate
Body
Parent or guardian approval is required
Parent orientation is required
Ongoing communication with families is encouraged
Body
Uniform, equipment, academy, or activity costs may apply
Financial assistance options may be available for families experiencing hardship
Ready to Start Your Leadership Journey?
Body
Join a program that helps young people grow, serve their community, and discover their potential. PEP gives young adults the opportunity to build skills that will benefit them for life.
