Volunteers are the lifeblood of Scouting and over the next few days, we’ll be talking to different volunteers and bringing you their story and what keeps them volunteering. Today we’re talking to Apryl Keenan who started volunteering for The Scouts four years ago in Whalley, Clitheroe. As our current Assistant County Commissioner for Beavers, Apryl is responsible for supporting other volunteers working with our six-to-eight year-olds to deliver a fun programme.
Why did you start volunteering with The Scouts?
Before I joined the Scouts, I was a Brownie and a Guide as a youth member. I then became a Guider, a Sea Scout at while at University and then a Beaver Leader when my own children were old enough to join. It’s been a natural progression and even though there’s been times without Scouting in my life, it’s always been there in the background! I even met my husband while camping in a field!
What is the best thing you’ve done while volunteering with the Scouts?
Every time a child gets a badge and their face lights up – it’s the best feeling in the world! They are learning so much and the fun you have as an adult is amazing – such a laugh all the time! From sneaky biscuit pinching (you’re not kidding anyone!) to rocket retrieval from a roof and everything in between, I’ve made many friends for life through Scouting.
Have you learned anything new as a volunteer?
I’ve learned lots of outdoor skills. I can confidently cook outdoors and make fires and though I’m not a fan of the mud (yes; some leaders don’t like it!). I do like the outdoors and making sure we all have a great time.
How do you think volunteering helps in your professional life?
It opens many conversations and you realise that more people are Scouts than you think! It’s amazing who has a link to Scouting once you get talking. We’ve used Scouting skills on work bonding activities – it really transfers to all aspects of life.
What would you say to people who are thinking of volunteering?
Try it!! You’ve nothing to lose and a whole world waiting to gain from it. You have no idea what you can find in Scouting from helping with admin to treks in Zanzibar and everything in between! It’s all there – you just need to jump in and give it a go!
You can find out more about volunteering with The Scouts at www.scouts.org.uk/volunteering
