This is the new motto for the Scouts Canada movement that we can definitely get behind. Along with "Be prepared," and "Sharing, sharing, sharing," the well-known Scouts slogans, we hope the new motto will become an indelible part of the greater lessons to be learned from being part of the movement.
So what is "it" that begins with Scouts? Leadership. Social responsibility. Dedication to the community. A fantastic value system. (And all the fun doesn't hurt either.)
Keep in mind, we're a bit biased. We were a scouting family. Growing up, Craig was always eager for the end of school. Not because he didn't enjoy school (we've written many times about how he was a bookworm), but because he couldn't wait for camping trips to Algonquin Park, Ont., with his Scouts group, and very possibly our dad, who went along as chief cook and bottle washer.
Scouts builds strength and confidence
Beyond the canoeing and campfires, and roasting the perfect marshmallows, these trips challenged us Scouts to confront our fears and emerge as stronger, more confident and more compassionate leaders.
One winter, Craig had to trek into the forest alone and build a snow cave to sleep in overnight. He had never built a snow cave before then – and hasn't had to since – but he learned an important lesson in perseverance, courage and resourcefulness that he carries with him today.
Scouts is for girls, too
While the philosophy and values of Scouts remains essentially the same, there are some exciting new changes in the works. One of these is the appointment of a new executive commissioner and chief executive officer, Janet Yale.
Yale is the first woman to hold this position – an important step that sends out the message that Scouts is for girls, too. If they want to reach their goal of doubling the Scouts youth membership and adult volunteers, they have to show that everyone is welcome to join.
Page 1 of 2 – Discover the Scouts philosophy on page 2.
