Locating Volunteers
Paul Miles (PGM01@ALBNYDH2.BITNET)
Fri, 28 Jan 1994 11:24:00 -0600
Subject Locating Volunteers
As new SM this year I tried to get away from adults helping too much.
Previously our SM got too involved in doing for the boys. Camp was set up
under his direct supervision utilizing only 3 - 4 of the older boys. Menus
were in the most part set by him (he also bought the food). Meals were even
cooked by him. Picture an adult at a propane stove taking orders for omelets
cooked to order for each scout! So we had a troop with a lot of boys that
didn't know how to cook, set camp and generally do the things required on a
true camping trip.
A few changes were made. Instead of having the chosen few do camp set up, each
patrol was given their own equipment. They are responsible for it and in a
sense own it. In our troop basic patrol equipment consists of a patrol cook
kit (utensils), enough tents to go around, a wooden folding table, propane
lantern and stove. Stoves are only used when necessary due to time constraints
or whatever. Now each patrol has their PL or Q'master in charge of setting up
their own site.
Our boy leaders now set the meal menus. However, specific dishes are not
encouraged. A breakfast example would be, eggs, bacon, bread and juice. Each
patrol can do what they want with the basics. One group may just scramble
their eggs, cook the meat and make toast. Another group may get more creative
and do French toast with bacon. If any extra condiments are not in our troop
pantry they decide and bring what is needed. At mealtime now there is a lot of
"Hey, look what those guys are eatin', we should have done that." So the
should haves learn, and the doers puff-up with pride. And next time, the
should haves aren't should haves anymore!
BTW, our first outing with this approach had one of "New guy" patrols far
outshining our Venture unit. I guess, even though they knew how it would be
run, the veterans didn't quite believe it!
Adults on our campouts are each a "guest" of a patrol for the weekend. As
guests, they are to act like guests except when a patrol has a problem, then
they act as teachers, not doers. Each adult relates to his host in their own
way. As anyone's guest, I feel that I should bring something to the occasion.
I may bring the fixin's for a cobbler or try some recipe for some goodie I
found or I may see that we are running a bit late and pitch in and finish
clean up so that the boys can get to some activity on time (or give them a
little extra free time). They know its not my job and they do realize my
"contribution".
Seems to be working.
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City |
