Leader shortage

Press, 16 September 1987, Page 14

Leader shortage

Boys like Scott and Michael are being turned away from St John because the order is facing a serious shortage of volunteer leaders.

Dawn Lee, the regional cadet officer for the northern region (South Island) says the whole area which extends from Waitaki to Nelson needs more leaders. It is currently running with about 80 leaders and needs 25 more so the workload can be comfortably spread. Most leaders become trained in firstaid but the situation is so desperate the order of St John is prepared to take on people who do not wish to train.

A training camp is being held at Waddington in Labour Week-end but prospective leaers do not necessarily have to attend, says Dawn. Anyone who has administration skills would be welcomed as leaders. “Even if they just have a bit of time on their hands and want to help out with some book-keeping or if they enjoy working with young people.” Those who wished to become fully-fledged leaders would only have to contribute one night a week in working with young people who might be aged between eight and 21 years of age, and be prepared to help out in competitions where the

cadets practised their skills.

Leaders of either sex and any age would be welcomed by St John. To the question: “What would they get out of it?” Dawn is quick to respond.

“There is a tremendous amount of personal satisfaction in seeing these young people coming through to the top. It is a fantastic feeling watching them grow as cadets — there is a hang of a lot of fun in working with them."

Those wishing to be leaders should contact the St John Headquarters in Christchurch, Phone 64776, or Dawn Lee at Rangiora, Phone 6243.