by Andrew Trottier
Are you looking for adventure?
Perhaps activities like hiking, camping, biking, swimming, orienteering might
interest you. If this sounds intriguing to you then you should consider
joining a Boy Scout program. I would choose belonging to a Boy Scout
program for several reasons. This would by my choice because first,
it allows you to participate in a variety of activities. Also,
I believe that the Boy Scout program teaches you leadership skills that will
help you throughout life. Last, I think that participating in a Boy
Scout program is a healthy life choice because it keeps you physically fit.
First, I think the variety of activities provided by the Boy Scout programs can be appealing to a broad group of boys. The Boy Scout program focuses on activities related to sports, outdoor adventure, camping, academics, orienteering, marksmanship and water sports. Membership in the Boy Scout program also allows you to have access to many of the BSA certified camps around the country. For example, those who may be interested in hiking adventure would enjoy a trek out to Philmont BSA Reservation out in New Mexico. If you manage to successfully complete a hike within the reservation’s terrain, you will have achieved a notable conquest! A trip to Philmont is a cherished accomplishment amongst many scouters. Perhaps you are more interested in water activities like deep sea fishing, sailing, diving, or snorkeling then the Sea Base BSA camp would be the place for you! An important issue to consider is the fact that many of the camps or programs sponsored by the Boys Scouts of America (BSA) must meet specific criteria in order to receive endorsement from this organization. First aid and CPR training of all adults hosting a BSA endorsed program is one of many mandatory requirements. This keeps all those involved safe and prepared for emergency situations. Whatever your interest may be there is some avenue in the Boy Scout program that will lead you to participation in a related activity.
Second, I believe that the Boy Scout program makes you a better leader because
it provides you with a variety of leadership training courses and opportunities
to use your leadership skills. Training courses are available to scouts
throughout the year, but many opportunities take place at BSA summer camps.
For example the Greenbar training is a leadership program for scouts looking
to sharpen outdoor skills while working with different people. The
Order of the Arrow is another group composed of “select” scouts who display
good leadership skills. A scout must be invited to join this group.
Managing a Boy Scout troop is another way you learn leadership skills.
All scouts participating in a Boy Scout troop are required to participate
in some form of leadership during their tenure within the troop. For
example, a Senior patrol leader’s responsibility is to determine activities
that interest the scouts within the troop and then coordinate and execute
these activities. The main objective of the Boy Scout program is to
produce a program that is “boy” directed and the adult leaders are to serve
as the guidance counselors. First, I think the variety of activities provided by the Boy Scout programs can be appealing to a broad group of boys. The Boy Scout program focuses on activities related to sports, outdoor adventure, camping, academics, orienteering, marksmanship and water sports. Membership in the Boy Scout program also allows you to have access to many of the BSA certified camps around the country. For example, those who may be interested in hiking adventure would enjoy a trek out to Philmont BSA Reservation out in New Mexico. If you manage to successfully complete a hike within the reservation’s terrain, you will have achieved a notable conquest! A trip to Philmont is a cherished accomplishment amongst many scouters. Perhaps you are more interested in water activities like deep sea fishing, sailing, diving, or snorkeling then the Sea Base BSA camp would be the place for you! An important issue to consider is the fact that many of the camps or programs sponsored by the Boys Scouts of America (BSA) must meet specific criteria in order to receive endorsement from this organization. First aid and CPR training of all adults hosting a BSA endorsed program is one of many mandatory requirements. This keeps all those involved safe and prepared for emergency situations. Whatever your interest may be there is some avenue in the Boy Scout program that will lead you to participation in a related activity.
It is my opinion that participating in a Scouting Program is a healthy life choice. Unfortunately, today’s youth have developed many significant issues with obesity and inactivity. Modern technology, such as computer games has lead many youth to a sedentary life style. Rank advancement in the Boy Scout program requires boys to learn about proper nutrition, cooking techniques, menu planning and demonstration of cooking skills. Physical stamina is also tested during rank advancement. During camping outings, you are constantly experiencing a variety of physical challenges, which can make your body stronger. Some of the qualities stated in the Boy Scout Law pertain to a scout being physically strong, and mentally awake. These qualities are important to any healthy life style.
Therefore, I believe that belonging to a Boy Scout program allows you to develop leadership skills while participating in a variety of activities that promote healthy living. The philosophy of the Boy Scouting Program is to teach the boys to plan, organize and execute activities that interest them. In today’s society adults predetermine most programs so children just attend and there is not much involvement of the youth. You will learn a great deal about the various stages involved planning activities like camping excursions. The motto of the Boy Scouts of America is “BE Prepared”. I have learned a great deal from the Boy Scout program. Qualities like responsibility, discipline, honesty, and friendship are just a few things I learned. Thus I urge you to join a Boy Scout program to experience every aspect of this fun filled program. If you like to have fun doing a variety of activities, then “Be Prepared” to have fun by joining a Boy Scout program because it truly has something to offer everyone!
