Commissioner's Corner
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As I was reflecting on the accomplishments of my ‘recently-made-Eagle’ son, I paused to consider who all helped him along the trail. If you recall, in my last two articles I discussed the Commissioner Corps, and the fact that “we” the registered leaders make up the District; however, there is another element besides Commissioners and registered leaders that is the real key to our kids’ success – it is each individual parent. Yes, the majority of adult registered leaders are also parents, but I’m talking about the significance of the individual parent in the lives of their children. Have you heard about the ScoutParents initiative? This is the vision of Gerald I. Lawhorn, right here in our own Council, and has been picked up as a National BSA Initiative. The intent is to provide parents with information and tools to help them understand their importance in becoming more involved with their Scouts. An anticipated direct result of this initiative is that the Scouts are expected to stay in the program longer, have a richer experience, and ultimately work their way to Eagle, but I also believe the parents benefit as much as the kids, and just from being involved. My son and I are living proof of the success of this initiative. He made Eagle at 14 years of age, and at his ceremony let the audience know of the significance his mother and I played in his obtaining that distinct honor (and I never hesitate to tell folks that I have more fun in the program than the kids). Are you actively engaged with your son in the program? Check out www.scoutparents.org today and see how you and your son can grow together. And for any questions you might have about any aspect of Scouting, get with your Commissioner Corps:
Yours in Scouting, |