Boy Scouts and Scouting Volunteers in Barbados West Indies

The Barbados Boy Scouts Association is actively seeking to expand its presence within local communities and is issuing a call for dedicated scouting volunteers to lead new groups.

 

Recently, the association celebrated its 113th anniversary with a parade and service, marking over a century of commitment to youth development in Barbados.

 

During the event, Chief Commissioner Trevor Jones emphasized the importance of transitioning from school-based to community-based scouting.

 

He stated, "To start a community group, we need members of the community to volunteer as leaders. While we are eager to expand, we cannot do that without volunteers."

 

Jones highlighted that the growing interest among young people in scouting underscores the need for more adult leaders to sustain and expand the movement.

 

He noted, "Our numbers could be higher if we had enough volunteers to open the new groups we are being asked to start or to expand existing ones."

 

Recognizing the financial challenges some families face, the association has introduced uniform support to make scouting more accessible.

 

Jones acknowledged, "The uniform is not cheap. We just received a grant earlier this year, and from this month, we will be offering uniform support to every member—for that first uniform—not free, but with significant support."

 

In addition to uniform assistance, the association is enhancing its programs to address contemporary issues affecting youth.

 

Jones emphasized, "We are working to make our programme more innovative and attractive to bring more boys into scouting."

 

Furthermore, the association is investing in training adult leaders to effectively support today's youth, with a particular focus on young men.

 

Jones stated, "We are also training adult leaders to meet the challenges faced by today’s youth, with a particular focus on supporting young men."

 

Earlier this year, President Jeffrey Bostic accepted the role of Chief Scout, marking his first official service in this capacity during the anniversary celebrations.

 

His involvement is expected to bring renewed energy and visibility to the association's initiatives.

 

As the association continues to evolve, the call for community volunteers remains critical to its mission of fostering positive development among Barbados' youth.