Are there any programs out there that I can do before I decide to go to culinary school for pastry chefs?

You will never know about specialty jobs until you try one. So try to get a job where ever there is a bakery and see what the job entails. Then you can make up your mind if you want to pursue the vocation further.

There are lots of classes out there to try out. Start with your local community college. They are always offering cooking/baking classes. You should be able to find it under adult education or continuing education. Do you have a Michael's near you (arts and crafts store)? If so, they offer different types of cake decorating/pastry type classes, usually offered by Wilton. You could also interview/talk to some of the local bakers and pastry chefs in the area. They are a wealth of information. I know during school, I had to do at least 3 interviews in the hospitality field. Hope that helps you out a little. :o) Good luck.