Uniformed boys and girls, members of the Cayman Islands Scouts Association and Girlguiding Cayman Islands, kicked off Scout Week with their Founder’s Day Service yesterday (Sunday, 1 March 2015).

Greetings were shared on behalf of the patron, Her Excellency the Governor Helen Kilpatrick, who was unable to attend.

Scores of Cubs, Brownies, Beavers, Rangers, Guides and Scouts paraded their colours, and enjoyed a service at John Gray Memorial Church. The event included songs, scriptures, official greetings and affirmation of their promises to the movement.

The dignitaries present included Chief Commissioner Orrett Connor, Executive Commissioner Winton Hayle, and Girlguiding’s Island Commissioner Allison Taylor.

Mr. Connor’s remarks included encouragement of leaders and participants; and an update on the new headquarters, which will open later this year in central George Town. It will serve as the base for Scouts, Guides as well as the Girls’ Brigade. “I encourage parents and families to get more involved, and to challenge your children with wholesome, healthy activities,” he added.

Ms Taylor emphasised the week’s theme, which is to change the mind-set from “What can I get?” to an attitude of “What can I give?” She also encouraged the continued emphasis on dedicating time and talents to the various activities.

The full agenda for the week included tree-plantings, Bob-A-Job chores, public service, group socials, a basketball championship, and a finale campfire on Saturday evening.

Mr. Hayle reminded attendees that “Scouting and Guiding have contributed significantly to youth development the world over; so, wear your emblems with pride!”

The late Lord Robert Baden-Powell founded Scouting in 1907 with a group of 20 boys, and then started Girlguiding in 1910. Today, there are some 45million boys in Scouts alone.

Credits: Information Officer Lennon Christian