The Scout Association of Trinidad & Tobago
Annual Report
2015 It’s Time To
Go Scouting
Only occasionally in history do massive
technological trends, combine with rapid demographic shifts and huge social change
and
ongoing generational
transitions so that within the span of a decade or so, society altogether alters. Today we are living in the
midst
of
transformation.
one
such
Contents 1
Notice of Annual General Meeting
2
Agenda
3
What is Scouting?
5
Management Team
7
Message from the President
8
Members of the National Executive
9
Report of the National Scout Commissioner
16
Go Scouting Campaign
18
Activity Highlights
22
WOSM Vision 2023
23
Times Change and We With Time
25
Financial Statements
37
Budget 2015-2016
39
Sponsors, Donors and Contributors
Notice of Meeting To members of the National Scout Council of the Scout Association of Trinidad and Tobago.
Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the Scout Association of Trinidad & Tobago for the year 2014-2015 will be held on Saturday 7th November, 2015 at the University of Trinidad and Tobago Valsayn Campus, Southern Main Road, Valsayn.
The meeting will start at 3:00pm.
Courtney Bruce Executive Commissioner
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Agenda 2.45 p.m. Arrival of Commodore Anthony S. Franklin, President of the Scout Association of Trinidad & Tobago (met by NSC and Deputies) 3.00 p.m. National Anthem Prayers Welcome Courtesies
Presentation & Adoption of the Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on October 11, 2014 Presentation & Adoption of the 2014-2015 Annual Report of the National Scout Commissioner Presentation & Adoption of the Annual Work Plan for 2015-2016 by the National Scout Commissioner Presentation & Adoption of the Audited Financial Statement of the Association 2014-2015 by the Honorary Treasurer/Auditors Presentation & Adoption of the Budget 2015-2016 by the Honorary Treasurer Election of New Members to the National Scout Council Election of Honorary Treasurer Election of Honorary Auditors Election of Trustees (three) to the Association Election of President (2015-2018) Election of 1st Vice-President (2015-2018) Election of 2nd Vice President (2015-2018) Election of Executive Committee Members Any other business permitted by the Chairman Chairman’s Closing Remarks Renewal of the Scout Promise - The National Scout Commissioner Refreshments
2
What is Scouting?
SCOUTING IS AN
EDUCATIO
The Mission of Scouting
Aim
"The Mission of Scouting is to contribute to the education of young people, through a value system based on the Scout Promise and Law, to help build a better world where people are self-fulfilled as individuals and play a constructive role in society."
To encourage the physical, intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual development of young people so they take a constructive place in society as a member of their local, national and international community.
Methods We achieve this by:
Involving young people through their formative years in a non-formal education process.
Using a specific method that makes each individual the principal agent in his or her development as a self-reliant, supportive and committed person.
Assisting them to establish a value system based upon spiritual, social and personal principles as expressed in the Promise and Law
We achieve our aims through a progressive self-education system, called the Scout Method, the key elements of which are:
Voluntary membership of a uniformed Group which, guided by adults, is increasingly self-governing in its successive age groups. Commitment to a code of living as expressed in the Promise and Law, the meaning of which is expanded as the member grows towards maturity.
The provision of a wide range of attractive, constructive and challenging activities, including opportunities for adventure and exploration, both indoors and outdoors.
The provision of opportunities for leadership and responsibility. Learning by doing.
Encouragement of activities in small Groups.
THE SCOUT PROMISE I PROMISE THAT I WILL DO MY BEST TO DO MY DUTY TO GOD AND TO MY COUNTRY TO HELP OTHER PEOPLE
AND TO KEEP THE SCOUT LAW
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An Award Scheme that encourages participation in the full range of activities and provides recognition of individual achievements
ONAL MOVEMENT Ages 7-11 CUBS
DEVELOP SENSE OF SHARING • PERSONAL IDENTITY • NATURE APPRECIATION • FUN
Ages 11-15 SCOUTS
VENTURE SCOUTS
ADVENTURE • PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT • ACHIEVEMENT CHARACTER • FUN
Ages 15-19 LEADERSHIP • SELF-GOVERNMENT • MATURITY • FUN • PERSONAL GROWTH
THE SCOUT LAW A SCOUT IS TO BE TRUSTED A SCOUT IS LOYAL A SCOUT IS FRIENDLY AND CONSIDERATE A SCOUT IS A BROTHER TO ALL SCOUTS A SCOUT HAS COURAGE IN ALL DIFFICULTIES A SCOUT MAKES GOOD USE OF HIS TIME AND IS CAREFUL WITH HIS PROPERTY A SCOUT HAS RESPECT FOR HIMSELF AND OTHERS
THE CUB SCOUT LAW A CUB SCOUT ALWAYS DOES HIS BEST. THINKS OF OTHERS BEFORE HIMSELF AND DOES A GOOD TURN EVERYDAY 4
SCOUTS TT National Leadership Team PRESIDENT - CMDRE ANTHONY FRANKLIN (RET.) A former Chief of Defense Staff, Commodore Franklyn has served on the National Council and Executive since 20. He was elected President in 20. He possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience to the CLICO Credit Union. After retiring from a thirty-two (32) year military career, where his leadership was displayed through executive decision-making, policy initiation, strategic and operational planning and personnel management; Commodore Franklin served as Senior Advisor to the UTT.
NATIONAL SCOUT COMMISSIIONER - ROGER BERKELEY Roger has been an active member of the movement for the past 30+ years, having grown up in the movement from a cub scout to his current position. He is a Human Resource Management Professional, with some 20 years management and executive experience in the private sector.
“Our mission should be to deliver to the young people of Trinidad and Tobago the best quality experience that scouting has to offer”.
EXECUTIVE COMMISSIONER - COURTNEY BRUCE Courtney joined the movement as a cub scout with 1st Laventille and continued through the ranks over the years, obtaining his Queen’s Scout badge and becoming a leader. He went onto obtain his Wood Badge and became a member of the National Training Team. He has also held the posts of District Commissioner, Headquarters Commissioner, Deputy National Scout Commissioner before becoming the Executive Commissioner.
OFFICE STAFF (L-R)
5
Roger Paul: HQ Operations Officer
Helen Graham: Administrative Assistant
Merle Ambey-De Gannes: Senior Administrative Assistant
Yvan Mendoza: Marketing and Communications Advisor
DEPUTY NATIONAL SCOUT COMMISSIONER PROGRAMME S. RAMCHARAN
DEPUTY NATIONAL SCOUT COMMISSIONER - TRAINING AND ADULT RESOURCES V. KANGALEE
DEPUTY NATIONAL SCOUT COMMISSIONER PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT LT. K. JEAN-BAPTISE
INTERNATIONAL COMMISSIONER R. SEEBARAN
HEADQUARTERS COMMISSIONER- SCOUTS M. A. JOHN
HEADQUARTERS COMMISSIONER VENTURE SCOUTS K. WOODRUFFE
HEADQUARTERS COMMISSIONER– CUB SCOUTS M. GRIFFITH
ASSISTANT HEADQUARTERS COMMISSIONER CUB SCOUTS K.CUFFY
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Message from the President
Commodore Anthony S Franklin HBM, ED
This 2015 Annual General Meeting of the Council of the Association is the occasion that is a waypoint in the administration of our organization where there is accounting for stewardship and planning for the future. The review of the year will show that leaders got the opportunity to closely examine the strategic direction of SATT and to offer their advice. Developing a new strategic direction is a work in progress and requires change at all levels.
This year’s AGM marks the completion of the first year of appointment of the NSC. We can reflect on the past year as one of slow growth, but in fact, it was the year when change commenced. The Council is asked to note the small changes made so far in the management of scouting leadership and operations, the developments in the Scout Shop, the efforts to improve awareness of the scout brand and attempts to better manage finances.
In planning how to write the next great chapter in scouting in Trinidad and Tobago, and to create the next generation of leaders we must continue to be mindful of the great responsibility the SATT has in bringing positive change to our society. This we will do through the timeless and unchanging foundation of values that are hardly found in any other youth organization. I refer to trustworthiness, loyalty, honesty, kindness, and the respect and dignity due each and every person. Our general task therefore is to teach the youth of our nation to say, just as so many scouts continually say: “On my honour, I will do my best” – and mean it.
I wish you a successful Annual General Meeting and look forward to a successful year of operation.
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Members of the National Executive for 2014 –2015 President: Commodore Anthony Franklin National Scout Commissioner: Roger N.C. Berkeley Lay members Rev. Dr. Knolly Clarke, Mr. Carlton Watson, Mr. Ronell Noel, Mr. Anthony Greenidge, Mrs. Debra Escalante, Mr. Indar Bhagwandeen, Mr. Oslon Oliver, Mr. Richard Dick, Mr. Roycott Mc Millan, Mr. Imran Khan, Mrs. Wendy Perriera-Aqui and Jason Julien.
Uniformed members Mr. Vivian Kangalee, Mr. Surujdeo Ramcharan, Lieut. Commander Kirk JeanBaptiste, Mr. Russel Seebaran, Ms. Marlene Griffith, Mr. Kenneth Cuffy, Mr. Ainsley John, Mr. Keston Woodruffe, David Phillip, Audris Balfour and Lynley Lutchmaedial. Honorary Commissioners Mr. Raymond Watkins, Mr. Arthur Maul, Mr. Ronald Richardson, Mr. Michael Bradshaw, , Mr. Azamuddin Khan, Mr. Dave Gopaul and Mr. Lalman Nanan. 8
As the newly appointed National Scout Commissioner Report of the of Scouts TT it gives me great pleasure to present this Report for the 2014 – 2015 Scouting year. As part of the largest youth development Organisation in the world, Scouts TT is well placed to deliver on its Mission, which, put simply, is to help young people become the principal agents of their own development as committed, responsible, self-reliant and supportive individuals in society. At a global level Scouting has a target to grow membership to 100 million by 2023. To get there, WOSM has developed a triennial plan focused on youth involvement and education. If this is achieved, the World Scouting’s population growth would be the highest rate of growth since the founding of Scouting in the early 20th century. STRATEGIC PLANNING What do we want to have our MOVEMENT look like in the next five to ten years and beyond? Can you picture what we SHOULD look like? How do we become the premier youth organisation in Trinidad and Tobago? Our traditional ways of management are leading the movement to decline. We need a fundamental rethinking of how we deliver the Scout programme and how we serve our society. Over the last two years much work has gone into the development and formulation of a strategic plan for the movement. The Strategic Planning process serves two important purposes for the Scout Association of Trinidad and Tobago. The first is to chart a path to the future. Although the future is always uncertain, strategic planning provides a framework against which to test and prioritize the movement's policies and decisions, particularly those relating to the development of its human, financial, and material resources. Secondly, the plan leads to a strategic approach to
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National Scout Commissioner Roger Berkeley management. It creates a climate within the Movement that is conducive to continuous improvement and participatory planning. A planning ethic infuses the Movement as people throughout the movement begin to anticipate, welcome and embrace change rather than react to and resist it. PROJECT RevIT (Youth Programme Review). The Youth Programme sits at the core of Scouting and is the mechanism that allows us to achieve our Mission. The quality, relevance and delivery of our Youth Programme are critically important in engaging and retaining young people. In the past year, several hours of volunteer work was dedicated to asking “What is good about Scouting in Trinidad and Tobago, and how can we make it better?” Focus group sessions were started during the reporting period and additional sessions will be held during the ensuing period with a target completion date on January 2016. This process is meant to touch base with our most vital and important stakeholder—our youth membership. Research indicates it has never been a better time to ask these questions. Social indicators suggest that we are heading towards major social change. Young people born since 1995 will lead extremely different lives to those now aged older than 30. I believe that in order for Scouting in Trinidad and Tobago to achieve its mission, we need to change how we do things - how we reach young people
and how we develop them. Significant growth in membership will not take place by taking the same approaches to youth that we have inherited from our predecessors or that we have become familiar with. To give this Review the focus and support it needs, a Youth Programme Review team has been formed, consisting of our sectional programme leaders. They have been mandated to engage our participants and leaders in a discussion of what the programme should look like in the 21st century. The goal of this Review is to develop a programme, with direct input from the participants, which allows the seamless transition between youth Sections, while engaging young people in adventurous, exciting, challenging and fun activities, supported by enthusiastic and suitably trained Leaders.
The Review will examine the alignment of programmes across youth Sections, learning outcomes, the Award Schemes and Leader training requirements. It will also review age ranges, programme delivery method and analyse the teaching of Scouting’s fundamentals, namely the Promise and Law. The next phase will be the formation of 0utcomes from the findings of the Youth Programme Review. Given the quality of the research and the thoroughness of the review process, I am confident our plans will keep Scouting relevant and strong in a changing world. YOUTH INVOLVEMENT The sustainability of any organization lies in its ability to constantly renew and reinvent itself. To this end one of our most critical challenges is the acute shortage of uniformed adult volunteers. The World Youth Policy
advocates for the greater involvement of young people in the decision making structures of the NSOs. This is aligned to our draft strategic objectives, which identifies youth involvement as a key developmental area to support the expansion of the movement.
1985. We will continue in our efforts to embrace qualified young people in the management of the movement, if not for the benefit of bringing new energy and ideas, but certainly for the survival and sustainability of the movement.
‘Young people are more switched on and engaged than they’ve ever been, it is essential for our sustainability therefore that we engage then in shaping not only the present but the future.
EXPANSION AND GROWTH
To this end we have been actively working on mechanisms to create vastly more opportunities for participation by our youth members and leaders. Some of these are presented in the initiatives for 2015-2016. It should be noted that over the last year we have seen the average age of our National Commissioner 11 leadership move from 59.5 to 48.4, the lowest since
As part of our commitment to World Scouting, Scouts TT has set our goal of 100% membership growth over the next 8 years. We successfully increased our membership by 6.3% over the past year, which represents a reversal of the 4.6 percent decline in the previous year. If we are to achieve or exceed our goal, we will need to double that growth rate by the end of 2018. If we meet the WOSM growth rates, we would be 25,000 strong by 2023. We will do this by not only increasing our recruitment, but retaining our youth members.
Interesting Fact About Scouting: Of Scouting’s total global membership of over 40 million, more than 82% are young people with the requirements of the World Organisation’s Vision 2023.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Scouts TT / SCOTIA Project This year we further strengthened our partnership with Scotia Bank in supporting at risk males in various communities. The programme aptly titled “Building our Youth for Success” utilized the structure and methods of the scout movement to deliver values and character based training, as well as life skills at every level.
Keeping our programme relevant to young people was the focus of the Association’s largest body of work in recent months. Much of the current success of Scouting can be attributed to a strong focus on Leader support, programme development and increased community awareness of the value of the Scout Programme in developing young people. This however needs to be significantly increased if we are to realize the quantum leaps that are required to ensure our sustainability and revitalization.
This year’s programme saw the participation of some 80 plus boys aged 8-11 from Central Trinidad. The participants took part in many outdoor programmes supported and administered by the Association inclusive of camping at Pax Vale, a kayaking regatta, field trips and other outdoor activities. Additional much work was done at a personal character development level, from teaching of life skills to supporting the educational requirements of participants. Congratulations to Ronald Richardson, Vivian Kangalee and the rest of the team in supporting this very worthwhile initiative.
GOVERNANCE AND INSTITUTIONAL STRENGTHENING
STACH: Recycling project
Another critical area for development is the governance structure and strengthening the institutional/ management systems and structures of the organisation. Over the last year a systematic manpower review and organizational needs analysis has been done, as part of a wider review of the operations. Draft proposals are in progress for the restructuring of the organisation to ensure greater transparency, improved delivery of services, better performance management and greater involvement of key stakeholders, consistent
We continue to support the efforts of our neighbours at Headquarters with their recycling project. This at a national level demonstrates our commitment to our leave no trace principles and we urge our district councils to engage in similar partnerships across the country. Districts and Groups Many of our districts and groups also participated in service activities throughout the year. This included 12
Lifesaving for special needs children; support for the Heart Foundation’s walk-a-thon; six clean up campaigns; and many more. We conservatively estimate that our movement would have contributed 49,600 hours of community service over the period. MARKETING AND BRANDING The last year has seen intense work done in preparing for a renewal and revitalization of the image of the movement. Significant time and energy has been invested in necessary research and groundwork required to initiative a proactive and businesslike strategy to our branding. We have been supported in these efforts by the UWI ALJ School of Business, professional agencies and experts. A number of these initiatives are outlined separately in the annual report.
ACTIVITIES
Adult Training:
Our training activities continued this year. A total of 83 persons have participated in our training programmes over the year, amounting to just under 2,400 hours of training being delivered. The programme has now been in existence for three years and feedback from participants suggests that while the content and delivery has met there expectation they have challenges when returning to their districts to operate based on the training received. This is a matter that will be addressed with District Commissioners, who must avail themselves of the opportunity to participate in the various programmes, if only to ensure they are familiar with it and to provide constructive feedback. I take the opportunity to remind our uniformed personnel of the requirement for annual retraining, which was established in 2013. This guideline requires that leaders participate in at least 16 hours of training annually. Further adjustments will be made going forward to both the structure and content of the programme to facilitate the concerns raised over the period - inclusive of the 13
timeframe required for completion.
Youth Programme:
Our groups continued to deliver the programme with some success, some more than others. Based on reports submitted to Headquarters our scouts would have collectively participated in at least 4153 days of camping and outdoor activities at the group and district levels. At a National level we would have, as customary, started the year with Dedication day services and activities across the country. The Jamboree on the Internet/Air (JOTI/JOTA) programme was also facilitated across the country inclusive of a base at Headquarters, which saw the participation of approximately 25 scouts. National participation was just over 220. Founder’s Day celebrations we held across the movement, with our national leadership would have participated in 7 such programmes, inclusive of San Fernando, Naparima and Port-of-Spain. National religious events were also celebrated over the period at the National, District and Group levels. Major observances included: Divali celebration in Naparima and San Fernando, Eid, Corpus Christi Procession in Portof-Spain, Shouter Baptist Liberation day celebrations, and Christmas celebrations at the District level. Cultural events included Cub Scout participation in Phagwa events hosted by the Maha Sabha, the Carnival extravaganza held at Scout Headquarters and many more.
Awards and Competitions:
Several of our youth members achieved the highest levels of achievement in their various sections. These totaled 79 inclusive of cubs, scouts and venture scouts. The Annual Totem Pole Competition was held in, with some sixes participating. The winning Six was from 2nd Bonne Aventure Group. Several Investiture ceremonies were held at a National level I had the privilege to attend 11 of these.
TOBAGO Over in the sister isle, scouts came out in their numbers during their annual Visibility Day and Independence Day parades.
Caribbean Jamboree took place in Curaçao from July 21 - 28, 2014. Contingent Leader - Mr. Dhanraj Ramesar of Pointe-a-Pierre District.
Professional Scout Training and Caribbean Chief Commissioners Conference, Panama - Russel Seebaran, International Commissioner
Scouting for Food - An initiative geared towards hunger elimination and supporting those less fortunate in our society.
Ticket to Life - This initiative is aimed at expanding Scouting in at risk communities which through partnerships with business and NGO’s will look at creating opportunities for at risk youth to participate in Scouting programmes.
International Scouting
At an international level the Association was represented at several events including the following:
Movement in Trinidad and Tobago. Three major initiatives will be looked at:
Inter-American Leadership Training, Texas—Allan Gittens (6th Trinidad) and Jordan Ramesar (1st Bonne Aventure).
Programme:
Revision of the youth Programme
Introduction of new proficiency programme features for each section.
Initiation of the development of Pax Vale II as a National Activity Centre to support programme delivery.
Appointment of a Programme review team.
Development of resource material for Programme support.
Introduction of High Adventure Challenge for Chief Scout and President’s Scout Awardees.
JamCam, Columbia - Patrol from Sons of the pioneers.
INITIATIVES FOR 2015/2016 Youth Involvement:
Establishment of National Youth Forum
Reactivation off the National Venture Scout Council
Continuation of Engagement process
Appointment of Youth Commissioners at the National and District levels.
Formal Introduction of the Rover Programme
badges
and
Adults in Scouting:
Establishment of a Training Curriculum Review Team.
Re-Introduction of residential format of leadership training, in addition to the current part-time format.
Expansion of Scouting in schools in partnership with Ministry of Education to create 30 new groups in 2016.
Review of the recognition systems for adults in Scouting.
Leadership recruitment drive.
Establishment of 20 new community groups in 2016 (1 per district).
Development of section programmes to encourage and reward youth members for bringing friends to Scouting.
Introduction of Quality Scouting Assessment at the group, district and national levels.
Restructuring of the National Office to streamline its operations and make customer centric.
Revision of Constitution and Governance framework of the Movement
Compliance Audits for Districts
Membership Growth:
Social Impact: 2016 has been declared the Year of Service for the Scout
Management and Governance:
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Interesting Fact about
Scouting: In the past one hundred years, over half a billion men and women have taken the Scout Promise. 15
“Go Scouting” Campaign According to its Strategic Plan, SATT’s communications as well as the national image of scouting were identified as critical issues. To address these critical issues, a recruitment campaign was designed to attract new members by positioning scouting as “cool” by emphasizing the excitement and adventure factors. The Association’s overall marketing strategy is focused on two major components: 1. 2.
designed three accompanying slogans: 1. 2. 3.
The imagery of the campaign is focused on three things: HIGH ADVENTURE action photographs of scouts DOING things in the OUTDOORS.
1.
Increasing brand awareness and Increasing membership and retention
“Go Scouting” was identified as the theme for this campaign, around which we
Discover New Adventure, Go Scouting Expand Your Horizons, Go Scouting Explore the Outdoors, Go Scouting
2.
High Adventure - Scouting involves many unique experiences that boys are likely not to have elsewhere. This is the competitive advantage of the programme that will attract the boys to become Scouts. Doing - A major part of the scouting experience is the collection of
3.
experiences and activities that the youth DO. This must be communicated visually. Outdoors - Scouting is designed to take place outdoors. The outdoors serves as the playground and the classroom.
The resource materials take three forms: 1. 2. 3.
Brochures - for Parents as well as Scouts Posters (one example shown below) Banners
You can request the files via email or make orders to have them printed for you. Contact yvan.mendoza@ttscouts.org for more info.
Revised Financial guidelines.
Reporting
and
Accounting
Infrastructure:
Upgrade of National Office
Upgrade of Scout Shop facilities and operations
Timeless Values vs Modern Methodologies “[A] good moral character is the first essential in a man, and that the habits contracted at your age are generally indelible, and your conduct here may stamp your character through life. It is therefore highly important that you should endeavor not only to be learned but virtuous.” –George Washington Scouting is a values-based educational programme with its own code of conduct. The Scout Oath and Law help instill the values of honour, good conduct, service to others, respect for others, and honesty. It is the timeless values established by our founder that have served the movement and ensured its viability for more than a century. That being said, the methodologies of the past may not be either relevant to or suitable to the present time. If we are to once again flourish we must engage in the type of self-review and assessment that our brothers in the UK undertook several years ago. Everything must be on the table for discussion, except our values. More than ever, our country needs Scouting and the ideals for which it stands. We are beckoned by a call to service to our country that must be underpinned by the clear understanding that Scouting MUST become not just a movement for young people but OF young people. If we are to continue to be leaders in the region we must fully embrace the requirements of vision 2023. This calls for a radical rethink of who we serve and how we do it. This year has been a very challenging one. But we have persevered. I know that there are many who are uneasy about changing the way we do things, just as there are many who believe that we are not making changes fast enough. We must make changes, but we must also respect our traditions and our past. 17
As I did at our last AGM, I will make one promise. That is that during my term in office I will focus on serving the interest of our youth members, above all else. For that was the call of our Founder Baden-Powell. I therefore put on notice my intention to collaborate with and listen to our youth members, and respond positively to their needs and effect the changes necessary to ensure that Scouting fulfills its mandate to our society. This is not a time for animosity and clinging to ideologies. It is a time for Scouting to lead and demonstrate that with character and values based living comes peace, understanding and productive lives. It is a time for people of action to step forward and make a difference. It is a time for men of Substance and men of character. I wish to make special mention of our many young cub scouts who excelled at the SEA examination, with over 20 of them placing within the top 100 students. Additionally, congratulations go out to our 11 national scholarship winners. All of these individuals represent Scouting’s commitment to excellence and doing one’s best, and are testimony that Scouting enhances one’s potential for success rather than diminishes it. In closing I extend my sincerest and heartfelt thanks to the National Executive, the President Commodore Franklyn, our HQ staff, my fellow Commissioners and the many leaders and young persons who have actively supported me over the last year. To the many persons who have been patient and awaiting the much anticipated changes and modernization I thank you sincerely and say to you - brace yourself for the ride, the journey has only just begun. To our donors, sponsors and benefactors, the Scout Association will forever be grateful for your support and for your investment in Trinidad and Tobago’s youth. Indeed in our country’s future. The year ahead looks promising. It will bring challenges and obstacles, but will also, if we all pull together and recognize that our survival is at stake, bring hope and revitalization. Let Scouting once more be a beacon for the society that lights the way to a higher standard of living. Let’s rally to save our blessed nation and let’s GO SCOUTING.
#NationalPrideTT
Let’s Go Scouting
2014-2015
WOSM Vision 2023 At the 40th World Scout Conference in Slovenia in 2014, a new Strategy for Scouting was adopted – Vision 2023. The following Strategic Priorities were adopted: Youth Engagement Scouting should give young people the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge,empowering them to take an active part in the Movement and in their communities. Involvement, recognition and intergenerational exchange are key in providing a framework for our youth members. Educational Methods The Youth Programme should provide a non-formal learning environment, strengthening the capacity of young people to face the challenges of tomorrow. Scouting should attract, train and retain quality adult volunteers to deliver the Youth Programme. Diversity & Inclusion Scouting should reflect the societies in which it exists and actively work to welcome all individuals without distinction. This diversity should not only be reflected in the membership, but also the methods and programmes used within the Movement. Social Impact Every Scout should be involved in community service and share their experiences to inspire others. Through activities and projects, Scouts contribute to their communities and become leaders of positive change. Communications & External Relations Scouting’s profile should accurately portray what we do and why we do it, reflecting our shared values. By using the most impactful methods of communication, and engaging in strategically relevant partnerships, Scouting should be recognised as the world’s leading youth movement.
Governance The governance of WOSM should be transparent, accountable, efficient and clearly linked to its overall strategy, and focused on achieving the mission and vision of the Movement. The roles and responsibilities of the different levels in the organisation should be clearly defined and understood, ensuring a customer-focused approach. In doing so, we ensure high synergy across all levels of WOSM with a high “return on investment”.
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Times change and We with time They say for every negative, there is a positive. Looking at our current situation from a different perspective can allow us to see advantages in being behind the curve. One is that we have a great opportunity and huge potential for growth. The other, less obvious advantage, is that there are tried and tested examples to follow from those who are ahead. Why try to reinvent the wheel? For ScoutsTT to meet the WOSM’s growth objectives, and our goal of 100% membership growth, we need not look further than our brothers in the United Kingdom, who just six years ago accomplished a feat similar to the one we are now attempting. According to an article on theguardian.com (“How scouts became cool again”) dated 19 April, 2010, the UK Scout Association in 2009 recorded its biggest growth spurt since 1972 to become the largest co-educational youth movement in the country.
One can see striking similarities between their then situation and ours currently, having not updated our programme since 1981 (34 years compared to the UK’s 42). With an overall review imminent, and research and improvements already underway, we can be confident to achieve similar success. It is without a doubt that all of our leaders could recall many fond memories of scouting in their “good old days”, and while we may be tempted to try to recreate those experiences for our scouts, it is important to understand that youths’ interests have changed considerably over the years. An evaluation of this generation’s thinking (“How to connect with today’s youth”) done by ICEF Monitor, a dedicated market intelligence resource for the international education industry, outlined some key information. Three of the findings most applicable to us are: 1.
A spokesman for the Association stated that the origins of the growth spurt traced back to 2002 (7 years prior), when they undertook their first major programme review since 1967. They made a decision to make the movement more representative and dynamic. “Everything was reviewed – the uniform, training, image, and, crucially, the programme of activities offered. Badges for "street sports" and "circus skills" were introduced. Map-reading saw the introduction of a very modern satnav element. Out went the brown polyester trousers and "brown mushroom shirts" and in came cargo trousers and polo shirts. Important changes were made to existing badges, too.”
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2.
The impact of technology and social media – “To them, technology means so much more than just a collection of gadgets; they have fused their social life into those gadgets.” This fulfills their need to be involved and engaged individually. Although it means their attention spans are shortened, social media allows them to connect to brands on a level which feels personal. Expectations in life – “Youth today have high expectations in life. Their Babyboomer parents taught them how to value their own opinion and strive for achievements.” This generation does not accept being stuck in any situation where they feel unfulfilled; they are open to trying new things and are easy to change their views.
3.
The cool factor – for any brand, including ScoutsTT, this means there is a constant need to reinvent itself. The study found eight dimensions of coolness with youth around the world: i. togetherness and shared experiences ii. international feeling iii. story generation iv. making life easier and delivering experiences v. high quality vi. Novelty vii. limited and hidden viii. Unexpected
It is easy to associate all of the above listed “dimensions of coolness” (except for point “g.”) with Scouting. In the words of Baden Powell, “We never fail when we try to do our duty, we always fail when we neglect to do it.” Our duty, as scout leaders, is to ensure that the youths acquire the full experience of scouting, regardless of traditions. We must embrace change and pursue the youths’ interests to keep them excited. Let us continue to use the magic of Scouting to influence the lives of the youth and do our part to create a better world.
Preparing for the Challenge Ahead In accordance with the Association’s overall marketing strategy, which focuses on increasing brand awareness and Increasing membership and retention, we have undertaken the below marketing initiatives:
Brand Identity Development — A new Scout logo representative of ScoutsTT which gives us a national identity, as well as sectional logos for Cubs, Scouts and Venture Scouts.
Recruitment Resources — Developed to assist Scout leaders in attracting new members, used to supplement existing recruitment activities. More information on the “Go Scouting” campaign can be found on page 16.
Focus Groups — as a major part of our market research, we have engaged our members in a series of focus groups to gather their insights and feedback on a number of topics. The feedback received will allow us to make informed decisions and ensure we are on the right path.
We are making huge strides in improving our communication, both internal and external, with the goal of removing the self-proclaimed title of being the “best kept secret”. We as members know what we know and love about Scouting because we are involved but those who aren’t members don’t know what we are about or what we do. We need to tell the world and we will use the tools below to do so.
Website — The development of a brand new website to be the hub for all information and news concerning ScoutsTT. It will be our news channel where we share our stories with ourselves and the wider national community. Social media links will direct visitors to our website.
Newsletter — “Scouting Around” — a monthly communication of our adventures, activities and developments, as well as a look at ideas and developments taking place around the world. Scouting Around will be made available online for reading.
Media Team — Having a website and a newsletter and social media presence are all great things for the purposes of marketing but we need people to generate and share content. For this purpose we have created a media team that will consist of photographers, writers, and spokespersons to cover events and tell our stories with words as well as visually. Training workshops will be facilitated so the team is well-trained for the tasks at hand.
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The Scout Association of Trinidad and Tobago Financial Statements For the year ended 30th June 2015
25
Budget 2015-2016 BUDGET 2015-2016 INCOME Donations & Covennants Fund Raising Government Subventions Messengers of Peace Property Rental Registration Return on Principal Scotia/Scout Project Training
OPERATING EXPENSES Bank Charges Building Mtce. Office Equipment Pax Vale Office Furniture Electricity Equipment Mtce. General Expenses Insurance Meetings & Conferences Petty Cash Printing Regional & International Dues Salaries Staff Savings Stationery Telephone Transport Travelling Water Rates Website Sub-Total - Operating Expenditure
BUDGET 2014-2015 TT Dollars
ACTUAL 2014-2015
100,000 250,000 256,000 280,000 45,000 60,000 150,000 20,000 1,161,000
100,000 250,000 126,000 133,000 250,000 45,000 60,000 70,000 12,000 1,046,000
171,000 189,000 329,000 253,000 36,500 47,000 162,000 18,000 1,205,500
1,300 25,000 8,000 60,000 10,000 20,000 10,000 12,000 7,200 8,000 7,000 35,000 270,000 15,000 3,500 30,000 600 50,000 5,500
1,000 45,000 8,000 60,000 14,000 6,000 12,000 7,200 6,000 8,000 7,000 36,000 238,000 12,210 3,500 35,000 1,000 45,000 5,000 1,400
1,123 22,476 145,000 58,000 14,000 11,400 9,400 7,100 7,500 9,600 7,200 30,200 233,200 12,500 3,100 27,800 350 43,300 3,300 1,400
578,100
551,310
647,949
Budget 2015-2016 BUDGET 2015-2016
PROJECTS Ceremonies and Awards Cuboree Jamboree Marketing Messengers of Peace Programme Development Scotia/Scout Project Special Events Training Youth Programme
Total Operating Expenditure SCOUT SHOP Income Expenditure Net Income SURPLUS/DEFICIT CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Office Equipment Pax Vale Office Furniture
RESTRICTED FUND - A.P. NEAL Income Tobago Scout Council Expenditure Tobago Scout Council Surplus/ (Deficit)
BUDGET 2014-2015 TT Dollars
ACTUAL 2014-2015
3,000 12,000 30,000 53,000 25,000 85,000 125,000 10,000 40,000 30,000 413,000
15,000 178,000 45,000 40,000 6,000 284,000
2,500 4,700 57,000 20,000 241,000 173,300 8,500 33,100 1,000 541,100
991,100
835,310
1,189,049
105,000 87,000 18,000
170,000 175,000 (5,000)
170,000 145,000 25,000
187,900
205,690
41,451
8,000 60,000 10,000 78,000
8,000 60,000 68,000
145,000 58,000 225,476
30,000
30,000
22,856
30,000
30,000
53,300
0
0
(30,444)
Major Contributors
39
SCOUTING TODAY 24,500 HOURS OUTDOORS
6,125 MEMBERS SERVED
142 GROUPS
35,565 HOURS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE
247 UNIFORMED ADULT VOLUNTEERS