The Scouts, Brownies and Girl Guides have been a part of our society since the early 1900s, all of which have the initial aim of helping to unite young people and support their spiritual and physical development. Being a Brownie myself back in the day, I can confidently say that being part of the ‘Pow-Wows’, earning my badges and making my promise, made me more aware of my actions and how they affected others from a very young age. I always felt a sense of pride wearing my Brownie sash, bright yellow jumper and skort. Feeling part of a team, and a selfless, positive one at that, helped shape my values and morals, which I still hold to this day. However, since they began, these organisations have not only helped those who are directly involved, but have also supported the communities that surround them. The Scouts, Brownies and Guides are now making a more significant impact than ever before, especially on the environment we live in.
Helping others and doing good is the basis of the Scouting promise and is something each organisation feels hugely passionate about. Scouts, Guides and Brownies strongly encourage their members to take on as many ‘Social Action’ projects as possible, so they can put their core values into practice. Social action is the act of doing something that will positively benefit others in the long term – this can be volunteering, fundraising, working as an individual or as a team, to make a positive, not-for-profit change. In return, it will help you gain confidence and life skills, which are a lot of fun. Throughout my own time in the Brownies, I remember visiting care homes, helping pack bags at the local supermarket and organising coffee mornings and bake sales regularly. These fundraising ideas are still very much carried out, but as the world becomes more aware of climate change and the importance of creating a more sustainable environment, we are seeing a bigger rise in the amount of eco-focused projects and the number of young people achieving their zero-waste, environment and conservation badges.