Looking back it has been inspiring to see how much we have achieved since our new District was formed mid-February, with lots of positive energy, and dedicated volunteers. New teams in place with many projects mobilised; District Leads helping Groups and Groups helping each other; new bank accounts, systems and processes established; new website, intranet and WhatsApp groups; Development Plans drawn up…all whilst our volunteers have continued to deliver great programmes every week for over 100 Units and multiple District events.
I had the privilege in recent weeks of meeting volunteers and young people at CubJam, Scouts Ashes Survival Skills, Squirrels and Beavers Arboretum, Poland World Jamboree practice camp, and several events and meetings at York Scout Activity Centre (Snowball). Planning for our York Explorers trip to the Denmark Jamboree is also in it’s final stages.
Looking ahead to September, after volunteers have had some time to rest and recharge, I am looking for us to move City of York District Scouts further forwards. Our Activities Hub at York Scout Activity Centre will crank up with new equipment, facilities, and instructors. Our Youth Volunteering Working Group will drive more student recruitment, and our new Joining Team will orchestrate more effective enquiry management. We will set up a team to plan a District Explorer Belt trip (let me know by end of July if you want to help so we can book a meeting date). Our new Marketing and Communications Teams will establish channels and plans to grow engagement and impact. We also have a new District Programme Team Leader (Paul Mason) to drive forward our support for Young Leaders, Top Awards, and adventurous activities, and grow our Events Delivery Team. Let me know if you want to find out more, or would like to get involved in any of these initiatives, or other aspects of our District’s development.
Thankyou for your fabulous support in establishing and developing City of York District Scouts.
Nigel White
