Do we meet key indicators of program health?
Generally accepted standards for assessing unit programs do give some indications of the program health but we should take a closer look.
Metrics report adult leader training, youth recruitment and retention, parent participation, youth advancement, outdoor program participation, program planning. Meeting these indicators is somewhat like having a pulse – the unit is alive and kicking. Problem is a unit can meet these criterion with a program led and administered by adult leadership as well as one administered by youth leadership.
My choice of indicators would be a little different:
Patrol System
- Patrols plan, purchase and prepare their own meals on camp outs.
- The patrol leader was elected by the patrol.
- Patrol leaders routinely sign off rank requirements.
Youth Leadership
- Patrol leader’s council meets regularly
- Senior patrol leader is elected by Scouts
- Youth plan and present weekly Troop meetings and outings
Troops that meet these key indicators will almost certainly meet or exceed the quality unit metrics but not necessarily the other way round.
Other articles in this series:
Looking AheadRecruiting and Membership
Leadership TransitionsFinancial Stability