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Youth Advisor Award Created
by Robert F. Ogg Jr., 33˚, Active Member
“Just what is a ‘yout’?”
Most of us smile when we remember the bemused judge asking that question of the novice lawyer in the iconic 90s movie My Cousin Vinny. The answer in the movie was simple. The answer in real life is anything but.
We can say a lot of things about “youths,” and given the opportunity, we often will. Of all the things that could be said, one thing is absolutely certain: They will decide the future course of human events. Think about that. You can take into account the greatest words ever spoken, the greatest things ever invented, the greatest ideas of the world’s greatest thinkers, and none of that will matter unless today’s youth carry them into the future.
Terrific. We are in a lot of trouble! Or, are we? Well, the world is still here, and a lot of water has passed over the dam. What is it that prevents the terrible events depicted in William Golding’s novel, Lord of the Flies, from taking over the world? I believe that the answer is simple: It is the positive effect that the guidance of an adult can have on a young person’s life.
Dad Frank Sherman Land knew that when he founded the Order of DeMolay. Others have followed suit, forming youth service organizations for young women. These organizations have had and will continue to have a positive impact on our young men and women. We all know that some Chapters are very successful while others struggle.
Is there a factor that causes this disparity? The generally accepted reason is this: Good advisors make good Chapters. The same can be said of Assemblies, Bethels, and Triangles. When you have good people on the Advisory team, the local organization will prosper.
Well, that’s easy. Let’s just put the good people to work as advisors and all will be well. Yes, it would be, except that everyone is after those people. Lodges, Temples, and every organization in between are searching for those who are dedicated, organized, and willing to do the hard work. Being a youth advisor is not the most glamorous position around, but in my view, it is the most important. As I have already stated, the youth are the shapers of the future. What could matter more?
In recognition of this essential role, Supreme Council is embarking on a program to give credit where credit is due. Beginning in 2021, every Valley will name a Youth Advisor of the Year. There will be similar awards at both the state and Supreme Council levels (chosen from the Valley and State winners respectively). At the oddyear General Session of the Supreme Council, the two people selected as the odd year and even year Supreme Council Youth Advisors of the Year will be honored in person. Any advisor of a Triangle, Assembly, Bethel, or Chapter may be considered for this award.
Would you like to be honored by the Sovereign Grand Commander at General Session 2021 for your service to our youth? Well, roll up your sleeves and get to work. It just may happen!
Illustrious Brother Ogg served for many years as a DeMolay advisor including ten years as the Executive Officer for DeMolay in Rhode Island.
