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Strategy for Scouting - Missions for Scouting

Adolescents - supporting their transition to adulthood.

Supporting young people in the transition from childhood to adulthood is at the core of the mission of Scouting as it was founded to help young people in this difficult transition. The relevance and quality of the Scout programme are measured by parents and potential partners, as well as by governmental and intergovernmental agencies, through Scoutings ability to support young people until the age of entering into adult society.

Today adolescence is becoming a crucial challenge in many societies and Scouting often fails to provide a relevant response. Young people express new expectations that the traditional systems are not able to meet: freedom, self expression, equal opportunities, better education, a job, the ability to find a creative role in society, etc. The traditional mould which prepared young people for adult life, is weakened, broken or has not adapted to the changing world. Therefore, when growing out of childhood, young people do not always have efficient and effective support as they move towards adult roles. Adults in all organizations face considerable difficulties in helping young people to meet their expectations.

The ability to respond to the needs and expectations of young people is a key factor for the success of Scouting and its recognition as a reliable contributor to the development of society. Scouting should be perceived as an expert in the adolescent age range, but in many countries, Scout associations are facing difficulties in delivering a programme which is adapted to the needs and expectations of adolescents.

However, there are tried and tested ways of supporting adolescents, which have been used successfully by many associations. These include placing an emphasis on the peer group, giving access to responsibilities and involving young people in decision-making. Another important aspect is developing positive relationships between young people and adults who are able to provide support, confidence, real challenges and opportunities to try out adult roles and acquire skills recognised by society.

This strategic priority aims at supporting National Scout Organizations in responding effectively to the needs and expectations of adolescents. This will result in an increase in membership in this age-range and enhance Scoutings reputation as an organization which helps young people in their transition to adulthood.

Read more about the MISSION OF SCOUTING right here!