Carman’s Beavers, Cubs, and Scouts are preparing to launch their weekly meetings this month, offering children and teens a combination of outdoor adventures, practical skills, and opportunities to give back to their community.
The program welcomes youth ages 5 to 17, with a focus on building confidence, teamwork, and leadership.
Eric Melvin, a leader with the group, notes, “The Beavers is your entry level into Scouts Canada. It’s a good program just to get some very introductory skills to what scouting is all about.”
He adds, “Once they move up to Cubs, they start learning knots, building shelters, and volunteering in the community. It’s also a time to develop leadership skills.”
Melvin explains that Cubs are encouraged to shape their own learning experiences.
“We ask them what they want to learn and what projects interest them. It gives them ownership and helps develop initiative,” he says.
When youth move up to Scouts, the program becomes more advanced, Melvin continues. “Scouts get more independence. They build towers and catapults, go on longer outdoor adventures, and stay involved in community projects.”
Community involvement is a central part of the program. Scouts help at food banks, participate in cleanup projects, and contribute to local initiatives.
“We want them to understand the importance of giving back and being good stewards of their community,” Melvin says.
Melvin notes his connection to Scouts runs deep.
“I went through Beavers to Scouts, and after high school, I became a leader. I’ve been leading for about 10 years now.”
He also hopes to introduce an adventure program for older teens, ages 14 to 17.
“That’s a much more advanced offering, focused on outdoor adventure and skill development,” he notes.
Beyond skills and activities, Scouts provides a sense of belonging, Melvin emphasizes.
“It’s a really good place of belonging. You can make friends, meet people from around the world, and develop yourself for future career paths.”
Youth can attend national events such as the Canadian Jamboree, or international gatherings like the World Jamboree. Locally, Manitoba-based events such as Klondike camps allow participants to connect with peers their age.
“It’s a great way to network and grow as an individual,” he adds.
The program is open to both boys and girls, and Melvin notes, “All are welcome.”
Enrollment has remained strong, though he says recruiting adult volunteers is sometimes a challenge.
“A lot of leaders think they need all the skills, but that’s fine. We can teach you,” he says.
Meetings usually align with the school year, though this season’s day is still being finalized. Melvin mentions, “We normally meet on Mondays, but this year we might be meeting on Wednesdays.”
Families interested in joining can visit www.myscouts.ca to find the nearest group and register.
“Carman is one of the only groups west of Winnipeg, so we have people coming from all over,” Melvin says.
There is a registration fee, along with a group fee that covers uniforms and activities, including scout cars, trucks, and Klondike events.
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