A new look to scouting in Selkirk: Scouts Canada decides to dissolve Selkirk Scouts

By Sheila Phibbs

The Haldimand Press

SELKIRK—Scouting has been a part of Selkirk since 1946, but it will take on a new look this fall as the program switches to the Baden Powell Scouting Association (BPSA). The change is in response to Scouts Canada moving the Selkirk chapter to Dunnville.

Scout leader Jeff Matthews was surprised and disappointed when he learned of the decision to close Selkirk Scouts. A former Scout himself, his concern was that there would no longer be a scouting option close to home for Selkirk and area youth. Matthews believes, “The program gives youth positive role models and an opportunity to be a part of the community.”

After some investigation, Matthews came upon the BPSA, an “independent scouting association established to promote the principles, methods and practices of scouting as originally laid down by Lord Robert Baden Powell, the founder of scouting” (bpsa-on.ca). The organization provides a traditional scouting program at an affordable cost to families.