Matt Ward Exploring On

10/08/2026

Today marks 9 years since we lost Matt.

Nine years without a loving father, husband, son, and brother who meant so much to so many people. While time continues to move forward, the love and memories Matt left behind remain just as strong.

Matt’s life continues to live on through the people he loved, the memories he created, and the lives he touched. His presence may no longer be with us, but his love, kindness, and the impact he made will never be forgotten.

Today, we remember Matt—not just for the day we lost him, but for the life he lived and the love he gave.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever remembered. 💙

Please take a moment today to remember Matt and keep his family and loved ones in your thoughts.

09/08/2026

A special evening at Los Alamitos High School’s Military & First Responders Appreciation Game, celebrating the men and women who dedicate their lives to serving others.

We were especially honored to see Los Alamitos High School alumni Matt Ward recognized for his service and sacrifice. Even more special was seeing Matt’s son, Anderson, run onto the field with the Los Alamitos football team — a moment that beautifully connected Matt’s legacy with the next generation. 💙🏈

The Matt Ward Exploring On Foundation is proud to honor Matt’s legacy by inspiring and supporting young people as they explore careers in service and leadership.

Thank you to Los Alamitos High School, the football program, and everyone who continues to keep Matt’s memory and legacy alive.

08/05/2026

Community. Partnership. Impact. 🚔💙

What an incredible evening at Tustin Police Department’s National Night Out! We were proud to sponsor the dunk tank and help support an event that brings law enforcement and the community together in such a fun and meaningful way.

A huge shoutout to the dedicated Tustin Police Explorers who volunteered their time, represented their program with professionalism, and helped make the night a success. The future is bright with young leaders like these.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by, took their best shot at the dunk tank, and supported the Explorer Program. We’re honored to be a part of investing in the next generation of public safety leaders.

07/01/2026

On behalf of everyone at the Matt Ward Exploring Association, we would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Explorer Duque of the Santa Ana Police Explorers on earning the Officer Ward Memorial Award as the Overall Top Explorer of OCLEEA Academy Class #100.

This prestigious award recognizes exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment throughout the academy—qualities that truly embody Matt Ward’s legacy. We are proud to celebrate this well-deserved achievement and look forward to seeing all that you accomplish in the future.

Congratulations, Explorer Duque! 👏🎉

03/23/2026

03/13/2026

🚨 TONIGHT! 🚨

The time has come! Join us for an incredible night of live music and community support at the Matt Ward Exploring On Foundation Fundraiser!

🎸 Flashback Heart Attack will be bringing their high-energy 80s rock show to the stage for a night you won’t want to miss.

📍 Old Ranch Country Club — Seal Beach, CA
📅 Friday, March 13
🕠 Doors Open: 5:30 PM

Come out, have a great time, and help support the mission of the Matt Ward Exploring On Foundation. We hope to see you there!

03/06/2026

ONE WEEK TO GO! 🎸🔥

In just 7 days, we’re turning up the volume for an unforgettable night at our fundraiser featuring the incredible Flashback Heart Attack! Get ready for a high-energy show packed with the biggest throwback hits, great company, and an amazing cause.

🎶 Live Music
🎟️ Raffle & Auction
🍸 Great Food & Drinks
💙 Supporting the mission of the Matt Ward Memorial Foundation

Grab your tickets or reserve a table before they’re gone — you won’t want to miss this night!

📅 One week from today
📍 Old Ranch Country Club (Seal Beach, CA)
🎟️ Tickets available now @ https://exploringon.org/donate

Let’s make it a night to remember!

03/05/2026

ONE WEEK TO GO! 🎸🔥

In just 7 days, we’re turning up the volume for an unforgettable night at our fundraiser featuring the incredible Flashback Heart Attack! Get ready for a high-energy show packed with the biggest throwback hits, great company, and an amazing cause.

🎶 Live Music
🎟️ Raffle & Auction
🍸 Great Food & Drinks
💙 Supporting the mission of the Matt Ward Memorial Foundation

Grab your tickets or reserve a table before they’re gone — you won’t want to miss this night!

📅 One week from today
📍 Old Ranch Country Club (Seal Beach, CA)
🎟️ Tickets available now

Let’s make it a night to remember!

02/19/2026

🏆 Congratulations to Explorer Lolli on earning the Officer Ward Memorial Award for 1st place overall at the OCLEEA 2026 Winter Explorer Academy!

Out of an outstanding group of Explorers, she rose to the top through hard work, leadership, discipline, and heart — embodying exactly what this award represents.

Explorer Lolli has been with the Orange Police Department Explorer Program for four months and is already making an incredible impact. A senior maintaining a 3.5 GPA, she balances academics with competing in high school and club soccer, staying active in the gym, and spending time with family — all while pursuing her passion for law enforcement.

Her goal is to gain meaningful experience through the Explorer Program, compete in Explorer competitions, attend a four-year college for criminal justice, and ultimately become a police officer — with aspirations of promoting to detective.

We are proud to recognize her achievement and honored to have her represent the spirit of the Matt Ward Exploring On Foundation. 💙

02/18/2026