Since the 1950s, Kereru Massey Scouts Group has provided a packed programme of adventure activities for local tamariki. And it’s not just about camping and bushcraft. Games, activities and community service are also a strong focus. The aim is to develop young people's self-confidence and leadership abilities while having a whole lot of fun.
A dedicated group of volunteers runs Kereru Massey Scouts Group. These special people organise the programme and direct all the fun. Currently, the group has 65 young members, aged from 5 to teenagers.
The scouts is made up of three different age groups. The Keas catering for 5-8-year-olds meets on Mondays. Cubs aged 8-11 meet on Wednesdays, with the Scouts aged 11-14 on Tuesdays. There’s also a Venturers group for older teenagers.
The group is currently preparing for the scouts' jamboree to be held in December in Hamilton. This triennial event brings together around 4,000 scouts and leaders from across the country. The week-long camp is a life-changing experience for many, with new friendships forged across the campfire.
Kereru Massey Scouts Group is based at 4 Red Hills Road, Massey. The hall is old, and the roof recently sprang a leak.
‘Funding is always challenging for volunteer-led scout groups like ours,’ says Group Treasurer David Smith. He adds that there’s no spare income, with all money raised going back to the kids. Finding the budget to repair the roof was a problem.
The scouts group approached the Your West Support Fund for help. And $9,700 has gone towards repairing the leaking roof.
‘Thanks to the Your West Support Fund, the roof has now been sealed and painted over. It looks like new again!’ says David.
And it’s not just the scouts that stand to benefit. The scout hall is also widely used as a community resource. And so, even more locals can enjoy the improved facility.
The scouts’ motto is ‘Be Prepared’. Now, Kereru Massey Scouts Group is prepared for another exciting year with a hall that’s fit for purpose.
Check out the website for more information about Kereru Massey Scouts Group. The group currently has space in the Keas, so why not get your little one involved in all the fun?