To The Editor:
Parents, as another Scouting year begins, consider Scouting for your children. Scouting has exceptional offerings of leadership, self-reliance, responsibility and service – it’s not just camping. It has the power to help us transform young adults into the mature adults that we, as parents, wish for our children.
How do I know? I’ve seen Scouting prepare young men for adulthood, ready for college, career and beyond. I’ve seen Scouting turn lives around: Awkward young boys – some goofy, some shy, some disruptive and some sullen and withdrawn – emerge as respected leaders among their peers. They’re uniquely able to connect with younger Scouts because they are living proof of someone who’s walked the same path and faced the same decisions.
When my two Scouting sons were applying to college, I had the opportunity to ask several college presidents what they thought of Scouting, and, in particular, Eagle Scouts. Their reply: Eagles spend years of their life pursuing a goal, and that shows focus, perseverance and dedication – traits highly valued as markers of success.
My sons aged out over 10 years ago, and I’m still involved in Scouting because it makes a difference in our children’s lives. It’s made a difference in my family, and I hope it will make a difference in yours.
Jeff Bruckner
Warren, Vermont
Maplewood, NJ
