Interested Adults Key to Youth Group Success!

But Our Lodge Doesn't Sponsor a Youth Group . . . Chances are, your community has lots of youth groups and activities available. But do they offer the values and principles of the world's oldest fraternity? Are youth being taught the high ideals and leadership skills that will set them head and shoulders above their peers?

Have you ever considered it? Your Lodge can have a role in that. Sure, there are plenty of reasons NOT to be involved -- and just as many reasons TO BE involved. Consider:

"Kids are too busy..." Kids in every community are busy. The unique programs of Masonic Youth Groups offer experiences and challenges not found in any other. Some will be too busy, but like busy men make time for Freemasonry, there are young leaders who will make time for the excellence of the Masonic Youth programs.

"Our Lodge doesn't have the money..." Money is probably farthest from a youth group's mind when considering a sponsor. Most Masonic Youth programs place the responsibility to raise their own money for their programming through fundraising ­ it's part of the learning experience. Financial support from a Lodge is welcome; but sponsorship is far more than "writing a check." Some of the best sponsors spend surprisingly little money, yet they make a big difference for youth.

"Our members are already so busy..." There are Brethren who aren't involved in the Lodge program because they haven't found the opportunity that really interests them. For some, it will be working with youth. Your Lodge won't have to provide all of the adult leadership; but there will be opportunities for your members to invest some time for local youth -- even only an hour or two a month.

"Our Lodge has trouble taking care of its own challenges..." Then a Youth Group may be just the shot in the arm you need! Being involved with the infectious enthusiasm of youth can really charge up any group.

"We don't know any interested youth..." That's an OK excuse for now. Get organized first. Often new youth groups floundered because in their enthusiasm they recruited too soon. When a program lacks organization, direction, and trained adult leadership, the youth won't stay. When starting a Youth Group, don't ask, "Do I know interested kids?" Ask, "Do I know adults who are interested in kids?" Interested adults are the key to success. Getting the kids will come more easily later!

"There's already a group here, sponsored by another Lodge..." Great! That makes it easier for you to be involved. Many will be thrilled for more Masonic support. A simple resolution of support, a financial gift, attending a youth meeting, or sending an invitation to a Lodge social function all tell youth that they really matter to you.

Not involved? You don't know what you're missing!