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When most people think of scouting, they tend to think of youth hiking through the woods, camping by a crystal clear lake, and standing at attention in their uniforms at a ceremony. No one thinks of scouting as a business, but it really is.

Scouts Canada is a "not for profit" youth organization, helping shape our youth to be well rounded adults, and not a cold money grubbing Bay Street enterprise. That isn't what I mean when I say scouting is a business.

We charge our youth a registration fee to join our organization, and in return we offer the world's greatest outdoor youth program. In the process of running quality youth programs, money changes hands, bills need paying, and equipment bought. Most groups conduct annual fund raising activities to help offset the program expenses. Most youth sections collect weekly dues to help buy craft supplies, or meeting snacks. It costs money to go to camps, visit museums, buy badges, run Cub Car races, and train leaders.

This is the business of scouting, and we must practice the same proper business and accounting ethics as any business on Main Street. Sometimes we think that because we are members of Scouts Canada, we are above good business practices, and that our good name will protect us.

There is another aspect of running a business that affects scouting, and that is our relationship with our customers.

The parents who pay the fees expect to be treated with the same respect we get when we shop at any store in Sussex, and like all customers, they want value for their dollar. As scouters, we must constantly be aware of this relationship, and make sure the value is there. It is the responsibility of all scouters to ensure that the dollars are wisely spent, and the programs offered are the very best available.

When parents and youth are thinking about joining a scout group, they are looking at the quality of the leaders, the program offered, and they are asking around for references. Make sure when they ask about your group, they get nothing but glowing references.

Many businesses have a code of conduct that outlines their operating ethics, and Scouts Canada has two. They are the Scout Promise and Scout Law. The Scout Promise starts off "on my honour, I promise that I will do my best," and the Scout Law starts with "A Scout is helpful and trustworthy."

These words clearly state that as members of Scouts Canada, we will do all possible to ensure that all business is conducted properly.

Scout leader Caines

Brennan Caines was a Scout leader with the 2nd Trinity group this year, and has recently traveled to the Philippines seeking adventure. Brennan has been offered a teaching position at an English school, and is waiting for changes to his visa. Teaching runs in the Caines family, as Brennan's parents, Daryl and Ann, were both involved in the education system for many years. We wish Brennan all the best in his future!