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Volunteering at Scouts is changing to help us reach more young people

Volunteering is changing to help us reach more young people

Volunteering is changing at Scouts. Read more

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Blog | 16 December 2021

Supporting Scouts with a festive gift

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Your gift this festive season supports young people, volunteers and the future of Scouts – thank you.

Donate to the Acorn Appeal

Make a difference today

You may have recently seen our Acorn Appeal, which aims to raise funds this festive season for the newest Scouts section, Squirrels. Incredibly, every penny raised in this appeal will be match funded by another donor. 

Squirrels works with 4–6 year olds during this vital stage of their development. Many groups around the country are starting their own sections, but we still need your support to help us reach the most underserved areas of our community, especially those hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Similarly to our Race Round the World Appeal last year, we know some groups are struggling more than others. Will you help us make sure Scouts is accessible to all young people across the UK? 

How your donation could make a difference

By creating new sections, we can engage new audiences. We’ve already seen an influx of leaders join since the rollout of Squirrels across the UK began in September 2021.  

If you’re a new leader who’s stepped up to deliver sessions online or in-person to our newest members, thank you. 

Lots of young people across the UK don’t currently have the option to join a Scouts group. 

We’re working with communities in these areas to get groups set up, help recruit volunteers and ultimately, inspire more young people to develop #SkillsForLife. 

So far, 28% of Squirrels Dreys are from low income areas, and 33% of the groups have more than 10% Black, Asian and minority ethnic young people attending.

Thanks to the #iwill Fund, every pound raised from this appeal will be match funded so your donation can go twice as far.

                                                   

By supporting the Acorn Appeal, you’re helping young people like Alex

Alex joined a North London Squirrels Drey as a shy child. He was struggling to adjust to life in school. His mother, Nadia, told us:

"I hoped that by attending Squirrels, Alex would see that although he was experiencing health issues, this should not stop him from taking part in activities and leading a ‘normal’ life."

After joining Squirrels, Nadia saw Alex’s imagination and confidence skyrocket. Soon he was joining new friends on adventures like canoeing and exploring nature trails. 

Thank you for all you do as a member or former Scout. We know so many people work and inspire young people locally, and it’s so, so greatly appreciated. 

To help change the lives of young people like Alex this festive season, please support the Acorn Appeal today.

Donate to the Acorn Appeal

Make a difference today
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