Our Centenary year in 2007 offers a unique opportunity to continue Scouting's growth; here's your checklist to ensure you're maximising on our 'year of adventure'
Remember our Centenary is a springboard, not a finishing line. Ensure people are not working beyond themselves and risking burn out. Remember we need to carry on delivering good quality Scouting in 2008.
Achieving your goals
In 2002 The Scout Association held a County Commissioners' Conference that discussed a 10-year vision. It agreed that in 2012 Scouting would be: growing, youthful (led by a high proportion of Leaders aged below 35), focused, financially sound with good leadership, relevant to young people and diverse, reflecting local communities. A lot work has already taken place, but 2007 can be the perfect platform to elevate us even further.
Your District
Consider the following areas:
Growing
People will hear a lot more about Scouting during 2007 and will be interested in getting involved. Here are some things to think about:
- Is there space available to accommodate more young people in your Groups?
- Are there other ways you can offer Scouting to more young people (such as at weekends or by centralising programmes in the District so that Leaders don't have to spend time planning)?
- Where is adult help most needed in your District?
- Will new adults be efficiently inducted and trained?
Youth-led
- Do you have trained Young Spokespeople in your District?
- How well is the Young Leaders' Scheme working?
- Are young people represented in your decision making to ensure that we are offering what they want?
Focused
- Are your structures as effective as they can be?
- Are the Executive Committees in the District helping as much as they can?
- How are you supporting the Groups that don't have a District Commissioner?
- Do you have the right people in the right roles?
Sound
- Are there sufficient funds to grow and sustain Scouting?
- Are you making the most of the grants and awards available?
- Do you fully take advantage of Gift Aid?
- Do you plan and budget as effectively as you might?
Relevant
- Do you have an MDM in place or a media development plan?
Diverse
- Can you offer a multi-faith St George's Day celebration?
- Can you give a higher profile for girls and young women?
- Are there opportunities to work with other minority ethnic groups?
Hopefully all this will ensure that your Centenary celebrations also have a profound effect on Scouting's future.
