The Springs Central Air Scouts is now opening its membership to younger members, inviting families in the community to take advantage of programmes that have been shaping the lives of youth for generations.

Speaking to the Springs Advertiser, the Scout’s fundraiser, Annelesia Laubscher, said the organisation aims to teach youth self-confidence, self-respect and self-motivation.

The group consists of three movements with various age groups: the Meerkats movement, which is open to all genders and races aged five to seven years; the Cubs for ages seven to ten years; and the Scouts, open to ages 11 to 18 years.

She shared that scouting is all about teaching life and leadership skills, while having fun, making friends, and enjoying outdoor adventures.

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“As the children learn new skills, they will also earn badges and advancements to move up the Scout ranks,” said Laubscher.

The Scouts offer various activities, including fire safety, arts and crafts, map reading, camping, pioneering, bug hunts, fishing, and more.

Laubscher added that the Scouts also host many events throughout the year, such as camps, fundraisers, hikes, zoo trips, and bonfires with campfire songs.

“Scouts are recognised worldwide, and we also have several events throughout the year where we join troops across the East Rand. Every October, we have an event connecting Scouts from around the world. The skills kids learn are lifelong, such as first aid, leadership, and fire safety. They learn by doing and experiencing,” said Laubscher.

Scouts meet every Wednesday from 18:00 to 20:00, while Cubs and Meerkats meet every Friday from 16:00 to 18:00.

With a limited number of new members, parents who would like their children to join should visit the Scout hall during meeting days or contact Nicole Swanepoel on 074 565 9678 for Meerkats and Cubs and Riaan Swanepoel on 072 598 9980 for Scouts.

Laubscher advised parents to bring their child to try it out for the first month, which is free.
“This way, they can see first-hand what it is all about and then decide if they want to join,” she said.

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