SCOUT WEEK Adventure
By William E. Lawrence
Director of Boy Scouting
In Fun and Fellowship
It seems strange that FUN must be emphasized as a feature of Scouting. For that’s what Scouts expect when they join a Troop. That’s what they must get if we are going to keep them interested ... but it should be fun with a purpose, a dignified sort of fun that Scouts will always remember.
New games and inter-Patrol contests; better Patrol and Troop meetings; stunt nights; special features, such as Troop attendance at the big basketball game or a Troop swim at the school or “Y” pool; wide games on every hike and camp; these are only some ways to make Scouting fun.
And don’t overlook fellowship. One way to stimulate wholesome companionship is to see to it that every boy is in the Patrol where he fits—in a Patrol where he has friends, common interests with the other fellows, a leader he will gladly follow, activities he helps to plan and responsibilities he has to carry out for the welfare of his gang.
THERE IS adventure in fun and fellowship and it’s up to us to provide opportunities for it.
In the Out-of-Doors
Many times, when boys drop out of Scouting they tell us it is because “we didn’t go hiking or camping often enough” or “our program is always the same old stuff.” Scouts want to go OUT. We must take them out—out where they can master the skills of the pioneer, explorer, woodsman, or sportsman.
Scouting has the program for the out-of-doors—hiking and camping. But let’s make it hiking and camping with a purpose—to explore wilderness areas, catch bigger fish, track wild animals, tramp the trails of the old pioneers. Let’s help Scouts learn outdoor skills—but then, let’s give them a chance to use those skills in seeking adventure.
Every Scout has the right to a rugged outdoor experience, for Scouting means outdoor adventure.