600 Members of SCOUT eh!

August 14, 2005

In our first year as an association our membership has swelled to 600. The ranks of those who want to have a say over the direction of their organization continues to grow. This growth of SCOUT eh! reflects a belief that democracy makes organizations successful.

In addition to the 600 members (who are all Scouts Canada members), there are 31 associate members (former Scouts Canada members), and 14 friends (other supporters) for a total of 645.

Our membership spans the country, representing every council and province except Prince Edward Island. Our members believe in Scouting and are taking initiatives to make it successful. Our membership is commenting on the Draft Strategic Plan, challenging the unjustified sales of Scout Camps, and working to have the Scouts Canada Act include language that will ensure a democratic structure and practice.

We are making progress. The Chief Commissioner has acknowledged a "democratic deficit" in Scouts Canada and has appointed a Board of Governors member to bring forward a report and proposals.

The more Members there are in SCOUT eh!, the more effectively our voice will carry. SCOUT eh! has become a positive force for reform of Scouts Canada. Let us spread our message so we may bring about the betterment of the Scouting youth program that is at the heart of everything we do.