Why We Scout

Is it a question or a statement? Is it scouting heritage, our mission, our vision, program features, and/or activities/events? Is it something deeper, like community or family? Can you put it into words?

As a question: Why (Do) We Scout?

We can all speculate why it is others do, we tend to lean on marketing jargon, or just go with the rehearsed general answers. The way to get the core of this question though, is to zoom in and ask a more specific question:

A better question: Why (Do I/You [We]) Scout?

Now the question becomes personal; directed with who is answering. We cannot answer for everyone without input and understanding; discussion. What does it mean to "Scout" or what is "Scouting?"

When I revealed the theme, I noted that the core of this theme is in the Den and the Patrol. These small teams are the core of Scouting. I believe sharing within these teams will lead to a closer team that better understands each other. What is it about scouting that drives each member to come to meetings and go on activities? What motivates them? What is it they enjoy? Another tag-on question could be have you shared your why with a friend who is not a Scout?

Adults? What motivates you? What is it about Scouting that you donate your time? Have you shared this with your youth? One of the methods of Scouting is association with adults.

The question of "Why?" Became important to me when I came across a TED Talk video with Simon Sinek titled, "Start with Why." I would encourage you to watch that talk if you find time. I've since used parts of this and his other talks and books within my unit- things like ILST training.

Open communication is not the only point of this theme though. There is also the history of Scouting; our heritage. Baden-Powell and the start of the Scouting movement, William D Boyce lost in the London fog, James E West, and the other founders of Scouting in America that are typically thought of. But what about other family members who were Scouts? The history of your unit? History of your council and camps?

Next year, when you come to Scoutmasters Camporee, change the wording to this:

(This Is) Why We Scout

Showcase what you've learned about Scouting and each other. Celebrate it.

I am also going to be looking for videos from Scouts, Scouters, Dens, Patrols, or bigger sharing their "Why" for the arena show. 

Yours in Scouting,

Allen Pinkley