Scouts Canada empowers youth and encourages diversity

Scouts Canada has been promoting youth leadership and empowerment for over 100 years through its unique programming that teaches life skills, outdoor appreciation, friendship and the value of community service. It is no wonder that Scouts Canada is the country’s leading youth organization; offering a world of adventure for girls and boys, aged five to 26.

This past year, Scouts Canada launched a new program called The Canadian Path that focuses on learn-by-doing, personal development, citizenship, physical activity and outdoor adventure. This well-rounded and empowering program teaches youth key principles in planning and reviewing activities, while focusing on improvement through lessons learned.The new program also looks to be more inclusive by concentrating on personal development. Youth participating in Scouts are now able to set their own goals to achieve badges.

Scouts Canada is not only inclusive in regards to its programming, but also prides itself as being a highly diverse organization that welcomes all people to its membership regardless of gender, race, culture, religious belief, sexual orientation or economic circumstances. While Scouting is already a very affordable program, youth from families facing economic barriers can apply to Scouts Canada’s program No One Left Behind that subsidizes membership fees and related costs such as uniforms, outdoor equipment and camps.The goal is that any youth that wishing to join Scouting can with the No One Left Behind program.

Youth that participate in Scouting are offered unique opportunities. From international trips, to vocational programs that teach real-world skills, to leadership positions within the organization, Scouts Canada truly does develop wellrounded youth that are better prepared for success in the world. Not to mention, youth get to participate in fun Scouting activities like hiking, camping, scuba diving, climbing, sailing, zip-lining, canoeing or kayaking and jamborees!

If you or your child are interested in becoming a part of this great community that fosters youth empowerment and diversity, visit the website – scouts.ca – and click on “Join Scouts.” Here you can locate local Scouting groups that are active in your area.

Scouting on Vancouver Island has grown by nearly 20 per cent in the past two years, and many groups have waitlists for their programs. If you have a skillset that you would like to share as a volunteer, whether it be administrative or outdoor related, please contact Melissa Bond at mbond@scouts.ca