Chairman's Corner

Col. (Ret.) John J. Halloran, Jr.

Q3 2011

As Father Stephen Salvador and I enter into our second year, our theme changes from Concern to Commitment. The dictionary states that Commitment is „A pledge to do something‟. When you agree to give of your time, talent and treasures to better Catholic Scouting then you have made a commitment.
Many of you probably have heard a number of jokes about commitment before. The one I like is about “a pig and a chicken walking by a church where a gala charity event was taking place. Getting caught up in the spirit, the pig suggested to the chicken that they each make a contribution. "Great idea!" the chicken cried. "Let's offer them ham and eggs." "Not so fast," said the pig. "For you, that's a contribution. For me, it's a total commitment." I am not asking you to be like the pig, but I do need you to be more than the chicken.
The NCCS cannot succeed without the commitment and dedication of its members at all levels. When you make a pledge to do a project or task, it needs to be done in as timely and efficient manner as possible. If you take on a leadership role, you should have a plan on how you will do that job using short, medium and long-range goals. Regardless if it is a task assignment or leadership role, when all is said and done, evaluate it and record it for your potential successor. We are not looking for folks trying to punch a ticket or have some fancy title that looks good on a resume. We want folks that mean what the say and say what the mean. Most of all don‟t say yes and over commit yourself if you already have enough stuff on your plate. I would rather see something not get done than lose a dedicated and committed Catholic Scouter due to burnout.
Another commitment issue I would like to address is training. When you become part of something, one of the first things you should do is learn about your job. Next, learn about the structure that supports your job.
Finally, get trained in your job. Our National Training Committee has put to-g ether numerous programs and materials that can help you get comfortable in what-ever role you have committed to. Much of it can be found on our website. If you are involved in an (Arch)diocese, they should have programs to help train you that they have created or the NCCS has supplemented. At the NCCS level, we offer work-shops during our Biennial Meeting (held in even years). Then we have the Philmont Course – „Scouting in the Catholic Church‟, which is designed to help you under-stand how it all fits together. If you are reading this, you have most probably al-ready said yes to supporting Catholic Scouting. If you are one of those that are not trained or understand how it all works, you should be committed in doing so. One of Father Stephen‟s and my goals is to ensure that when you speak or do something on behalf of Catholic Scouting that we are all on the same page.
Enjoy the rest of your summer. Continue to be committed in making a positive difference in the lives you touch. Take care and God Bless.