In the heart of Sault Ste. Marie, a unique opportunity awaits individuals with a passion for shaping the future and fostering leadership skills in young people.
Westminster Scouts Canada is looking for dedicated volunteers to take the lead and guide the next generation of young minds on a journey of self-discovery, adventure and camaraderie.
The greatest need currently is to assemble a team of leaders for the Beaver Colony, ages 5 to 7 years.
Why Volunteer?
Volunteering is not just an act of generosity, says Westminster Scout Commissioner Rod McDonald, it's a deep investment in the community's future.
“Being a Scout Leader is about nurturing self confidence,” McDonald said.
“And that confidence comes with the various things that they get to do, the learning about nature, for example.”
“For some of these kids, they've never done anything like that.”
The Power of Mentorship
As a Scout leader, you become a mentor and role model, guiding Scouts through a series of exciting and educational adventures. From outdoor trips to skill-building activities, Scout leaders become a vital part of a transformative journey that helps Scouts discover their potential.
In Sault Ste. Marie, Scouts often venture into the woods as a unit – a weekend to Pancake Bay had until Covid, been an annual Beaver section event. Where Beavers learn camping and light survival skills, like how to start a campfire, how to pitch a tent, etc.
They’ve even brought older sections out to spend nights in a quinzee, or snow shelter, a structure similar to an igloo, but formed and hollowed out of packed snow.
“A kid comes out of that, and says, ‘man, I survived that? Twenty below outside yet I survived it, all cozy in a snow pile? I guess I can do anything.’’”
“That’s what we hope to foster in these kids,” McDonald said.
The impact of a dedicated group of individuals can shape the lives of countless young Scouts, instilling values that will last a lifetime.
By volunteering with Westminster Scouts Canada, you have the chance to make a difference in the lives of Sault Ste. Marie’s youth, contributing to the development of responsible, resourceful, and resilient individuals.
But the journey for many Scouts often begins with the youngest section, the Beavers, and that is where the Westminster Group needs the most volunteers.
Building Lasting Connections
Volunteering as a Scout leader is not just about shaping the future – it's about forming lasting connections with both the Scouts and fellow leaders. Westminster Scouts is a community of like-minded individuals – collectively, they bring 150 years of leadership experience to the program – working together to create a positive environment for its young members.
Westminster Scouts has been a fixture in Sault Ste. Marie since 1952 – McDonald’s father was the group’s first Troop leader – and has seen countless future Troop leaders pass through its ranks.
Each leader brings their own life experience and own interests to the table, ensuring that each Scout can draw from different perspectives and skills.
“There's just crazy amounts of stuff that can be taught to them,” McDonald said. “Our leaders also have the ability to select something that might be of special interest to them that's also in keeping with the spirit of scouting.”
“Sometimes we have a section stand outside the church at night, and look up at the sky and try to figure out some of the constellations,” he said. “That’s stuff that a lot of kids just have never done before. Never even been aware of it. “
Personal Satisfaction
The personal satisfaction derived from being a Scout leader is immeasurable. Witnessing the Scouts conquer challenges, overcome fears, and develop into responsible citizens fosters a sense of pride that goes beyond words.
As a leader, you'll be part of creating memories that last a lifetime, both for the Scouts and for yourself.
How to Get Involved
Westminster Scouts welcomes individuals from all walks of life to join this exciting journey. Whether you have experience in scouting or are completely new to it, your enthusiasm and commitment are what matter most.
Basic outdoor skills are positive to have, McDonald said, but they are also looking for people with innate leadership skills and a willingness to learn.
“Having good role models is what it's all about. Having strong role models and the ability to interact with children. Reach them, talk to them.”
“The commitment is real,” McDonald said. “But the personal rewards far out-weigh the effort involved.”
Once you've made the commitment and are ready to work directly with the group, McDonald said they’re looking for individuals who can make an ongoing commitment to regularly attend and actively participate in their weekly meeting, excluding holidays and the summer hiatus.
Additionally, future leaders join the outings and camps that create lasting memories for the Scouts.
A dedicated team of Scouters, knowledgeable in the many program elements, is on-hand to provide all the advice necessary to easily navigate the process, start to finish, McDonald said. There are no initial costs to potential leaders, and the Group covers screening/training fees, plus expenses for the basic uniform.
If you're ready to embark on a rewarding adventure as a Westminster Scouts leader, please contact scoutswestminster11soo@gmail.com to learn more about the application process and training opportunities.
Take the leap, become a mentor, and make a lasting impact on the future – join Westminster Scouts today! Your community and the next generation of leaders are counting on you.