How’s Scouts these days? I went through it for several years as a kid and even earned my Australian Scout Medallion (still not sure how I managed that since I was terrible at the survival skills—could only tie a reef knot!). I chose not to continue with Venturers because none of my friends were interested, and I didn’t want to go solo. It’s been about 12 years since then. I rarely see any Scouts around town anymore, and it seems like all the groups have merged into one, which also doesn’t seem very active. Is this a trend happening nationwide? I imagine COVID really impacted things. Looking back, I do miss it. Spending a few nights in the bush, away from modern life, was such a great experience.
It sounds like you have some great memories of your time in Scouts! Many people feel the same way about their experiences, especially the adventures and the camaraderie. It’s unfortunate to hear that your local groups seem less active now. From what I’ve seen, yes, many areas have experienced similar trends, especially post-COVID. Some groups have struggled with participation and recruitment, and many have merged to stay viable.
The essence of Scouts—being outdoors, learning skills, and building friendships—is still cherished by those who participate. However, adapting to modern interests and societal changes can be challenging for organizations like Scouts. It might be worth reaching out to see if there are any community events or programs rekindling that spirit. Who knows, maybe you could find a local group that’s thriving or even inspire a revival in your area! It would be nice to see more of those camping trips and outdoor activities back on the agenda.