New Year’s Inspirations

One great thing about Scouting is not only having our own adventures to look forward to in the New Year, but knowing how others in our movement have laid the foundation for their own exciting futures.

I’d like to share two inspiring Scouting stories to illustrate my point.

Let me tell you about 21-year-old Jordan Brooks.

Jordan Brooks with the awards and certificates he received for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. // Photo courtesy of Sun Times Media

He was born legally blind and at age three, Jordan was diagnosed with epilepsy. Because of these health conditions, he was home-schooled and as his social life as a teenager had some roadblocks, he became withdrawn.

Then came Scouting.

Jordan was invited to a troop meeting at age 14, and his parents say a life-changing event occurred: he felt accepted.

Fast-forward seven years. Jordan earned his Eagle with Troop 40 in Mokena, Illinois with a project that helped others who are visually impaired by collecting nearly 1,300 eyeglasses to donate to a local eye doctor. He encourages others with disabilities to try Scouting, and he plans to continue working with his troop as an adult leader. Jordan’s future is bright.

Now consider this story. Often we celebrate 20-year, 50-year, or longer anniversaries for Scouting units.

I’d like you all to join me celebrating a one-year milestone for the Venturing program in North Platte, Nebraska.

Photo courtesy of Venture Crew 2013-North Platte, Ne. Facebook page

They are eagerly anticipating their next year of bold, exciting adventures, thanks to the vision of two community volunteers, Dr. David Lindley and John Guethlein, who has been involved with Scouting for most of his life.

“The Scout Oath and Law are things I live by as an adult,” Guethlein told the North Platte Telegraph in a recent interview. “The adventure stuff we do is a lot of fun, but it also helps incorporate values they carry into adulthood.”

Lindley agreed, explaining how Venturing can teach survival and leadership skills that can last a lifetime.

This crew now has 10 members since Venturing began in North Platte in January of 2013, and just held its first Court of Honor. They are looking forward to many more years of serving boys and girls ages 14-21.

We’re looking forward to a great 2014, and hearing stories like these really gets me pumped up to find even more new paths and opportunities to bring a quality Scouting experience to the many young people we serve.

What plans do you have for the New Year to bring more strength and quality to the programs you offer for young people or employees/volunteers in your organizations?

Happy New Year!

Wayne