Extreme Adventure? How about Extreme Service!

In different forums, the concept of International Development has been discussed as a 'program' idea for Venturers and Rovers. Being involved in these projects, I can safely say they are an incredible opportunity. In reality, what they do is expand our concept of community for Rovers so they can provide service outside the country. From this, I started thinking about the concept of Extreme Service.

Why not? We have the idea of Extreme Adventure which is really supposed to be a short-term project for Venturer aged (+/-) youth to take on. But what about Rovers whose motto is "Service". What if they don't have the time for a longer project, can't commit to weekly meetings with the local Pack, can't afford to go to Central America? What can they do?

The idea of Extreme Service would provide Rovers, who want to get together for a weekend or two, an opportunity to do some good (and maybe have some fun along the way). How many Scout properties would love to have a group of Rovers come in for the weekend to replace a cabin roof, build activities for upcoming camps, etc.

I'm not suggesting a separate section. Just an opportunity for us to consider creating opportunities for these youth to do some greatly appreciated service for our organization or others.

I think a lot of Rovers would be open to that, and probably just as many Venturers. In my mind we could start in our own backyard, perhaps provide service to an underpriveledged neighborhood nearby, then go provincial, national etc and I think it would be incredible if we could have Scouters providing service to international developing communities in needed.

The development of small or large groups with a main objective towards community service is a fantastic idea.

The creation of small or large groups pertaining to "community" service is a great idea. Through this type of program offering, we could possibly see more young adults joining in to participate. I'd like to make one point that should be kept in mind for this type of program... "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy." From personal experience I know that one can have a lot of fun through service work and with that in mind it could be possible to develop fun activities that can be included with each piece of work.

(Three days)