“Life's most urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others'" - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Serving others is the backbone of Scouting volunteers and staff. I do not see myself as a manager of people, but a leader to those I have the privilege of serving. Be that staff or our volunteers at all levels, I see my role is to provide them with the tools they need to be successful, motivation to surpass what they ever thought they could do while holding them accountable and of course, making the tough decisions when needed.

When Journey to Excellence (JTE) first came out, I quickly assessed that for a council to be a “Gold Level” achiever, it must have a strong volunteer base throughout and a strong staff supporting them.  The backbone of our success is the relationships the staff and volunteers have forged with each other. Building a successful, sustainable council starts with strong relationships with its volunteers. From Executive Board members, to the 30-year veteran Scoutmaster to that new Tiger Cub Den Leader, we are only as successful of those that surround us.

Serving a council that covers parts of two states brings its own set of challenges. However, seeking input and involvement from key community leaders, asking them to serve on the Executive Board and District Committees, we have overcome the “we versus them” mentality.

Reaching our volunteers is ever so difficult. With longer work days, longer commutes, more opportunities for their kids; Scouting volunteers today have less time available. Recognizing this, I need to communicate in a number of ways. Serving as staff advisor to both the VP of Marketing and our technology committee we have accomplished the following;

• A well thought-out and easy-to-navigate website
• Social Media pages for the council, districts, camp, and OA lodge
• E-news (Mailbag) sent weekly to all volunteers and families
• On-line registrations for all events and activities
• Continued "snail mail" for camps and activities

In addition, I have worked with our VP of Program to institute a Program & Popcorn Kickoff for unit volunteers to come and talk to the different council program committees and pick up key materials. Seeing the need to have better communications and district representation within council program committees, I worked with our VP of Program meeting with his cabinet quarterly and, in turn, they meet with their committee. The results have been larger attendance, better communication back to all the districts, and more volunteers engaged in programming. 

Even though I understand that time is limited for our volunteers and with technology changing the landscape on how our society goes about its daily lives, I find it even more important to establish relationships in person with individuals. Today, people are hiding behind their computer screens or Smartphones. It’s too easy to hit the delete button and go about their business and not get out there to help their community. But when they and you have invested time together, they are more likely to step up and support a great cause. While I embrace new technology and use it in supporting those associated with Scouting, I insist that my staff and myself, continue to build relations the old-fashioned way. 

 Relationships are just as important when leading a successful team. My leadership style is that of a coach; helping each team member to see their full potential, not to settle for mediocre, but to strive for "gold" on a daily basis. I accomplish this through leading by example, providing training opportunities, encouraging them to try new ways, letting them make and learn from their mistakes. Setting agreed upon expectations and holding them accountable, I have found a larger buy-in and commitment in obtaining goals.

Key Documents  

• Program and Popcorn Kickoff Invitation

• Mail Bag

• Annual Report
• Donor Communication