Thinking of a new year resolution that involves getting involved in the community and helping out a local youth organisation? If so, Cupar Scouting would like to hear from you!
Cupar Group Scout leader Donald Jenks said the troop was keen to recruit new leaders/adult volunteers to help all age groups thrive.
“Scouting has been a part of young peoples’ lives since the experimental first camp on Brownsea Island in 1907,” said Mr Jenks, a retired Fife police officer.
“It has grown since then to an international movement dedicated to the development of young people.
“It has endured where others have not as it has regularly adapted to ensure it remains relevant to the lives of young people and offers a program of activities that challenges and excites them.
“We have all heard the Scout motto of Be Prepared and while that is still very relevant to what we are trying to do for young people our drive now is to provide them with ‘Skills for Life’.”
Scouts have four separate age groups: Beavers for 6-8 year olds, Cubs for 8-10 year olds, Scouts for 10-14 year olds and Explorers for 14-18 year olds.
Through a balanced program tailored to each of those age groups they provide activities and life changing adventures to help young people be the best they possibly can be.
Mr Jenks said Scouts are different from other youth groups and clubs that look to develop a particular skill.
“Scouts are a movement,” he added. “We are trying to help young people find their place in the world by developing skills they can use throughout their lives whether that be practical skills such as first aid, cooking or navigating or social skills such a communicating, empathizing or growing confidence and self-reliance.
“Scouts are do-ers and give-it-a-go-ers. We question and listen and form wide open minds. We take a deep breath and speak up. We think on our feet. See the big picture. Ignore the butterflies and go for it.
“We get back up and try again. We think about what’s next, and plan for it. We jump in, get muddy, give back and get set.”
Caroline, who helps in the Beaver Colony, said: “As a volunteer with the Beavers I feels it gives the children the opportunity to gain skills and confidence to do team building exercises and play games that teach them to work well in team.”
John who helps in the Scout Troop said: “Standing up and presenting, talking to people, working together – most people in the workplace don’t have a clue how to manage, but when you volunteer, it becomes easy.”
Catriona, a Cub Scout Leader for five years said: “I love seeing the excitement, joy and sheer pride on their faces when they push themselves and achieve something they didn’t think they were able to do.”
Donald added: “Seeing our young people’s journey from a six-year-old Beaver Scout to an 18-year- old Explorer Scout is so rewarding, seeing them developing skills, challenging themselves and achieving so much is so rewarding.”
To find out more, contact Donald Jenks via donaldjenks@me.com or call Donald for an informal chat on 07515 259802.
