The group offers a varied programme of indoor and outdoor activities to develop the creative imaginations of tamariki.
‘Edmonton Scouting Group helps young people to enjoy new adventures,’ says Chairperson Troy Norrie. ‘They get to experience the outdoors, make new friends, gain confidence and have the opportunity to reach their full potential,’ he adds.
Sessions are organised by different age groups. Keas is for littlies aged 5-8. Fun and friendship are offered with plenty of games, play-acting, crafts and singalongs. Cubs is for 8–10-year-olds, with camping, hiking, and sports favourite activities for this group. Those aged 12-14 join the Scouts, where the emphasis is on camp craft, bushcraft and heaps of outdoor adventures. Older teenagers take a step up with the Venturers and develop leadership skills by running their own activities.
Edmonton Scouting Group has around 50 active members across all age groups.
Protecting the environment is a top priority for Edmonton Scouts. They partner with other organisations like RiverCare Group. And members recently participated in a clean-up of Henderson Creek.
As with most community organisations, Covid has been challenging for Edmonton Scouts. For the last two years, lockdowns and social distancing have curtailed the group’s activities. And it’s also left a big dent in finances.
However, much-needed funding of $5,000 from the Your West Support Fund has been put to good use.
Troy explains that camping and hiking are core activities for the scouts. But they also require lots of equipment. Thanks to the Your West Support Fund, Edmonton Scouts has bought new chilly bins, ropes and camping gear. The group has also stocked up on new sports equipment to keep the kids active. And the Keas have benefitted from a wide selection of new arts and crafts.
A recent 10 km hike along the Mangawhai coastline was much easier, with the reward of an ice-cold drink at the end. And the new ropes came in handy when the tamariki constructed their own rope bridge to cross a stream. ‘The Your West Support Fund has helped us at a crucial time,’ says Troy.
You’ll find Edmonton Scouting Group at 10c Coletta Lane, Te Atatu South. A packed programme of activities is lined up for term four, so get in touch for all the details.