Scouts United: Committed to Helping Those in Need

The Kajak.mk team reached out to Snezana Jankovic, a member of the "First Skopje Scouting Detachment." This group traditionally organizes humanitarian events each year under the motto "Do a good deed." The results of their humanitarian efforts are presented on February 22nd, coinciding with World Scout Movement Day, which celebrates the birthday of Robert Baden Powell, the founder of the largest youth movement in the world.

Snezana explains that each year, a few weeks before February 22nd, they make a public appeal for donations of mountaineering equipment. This equipment can help many young people and adults take their first steps into the mountains. After this humanitarian appeal, their group divides into smaller scout groups that engage in various humanitarian activities throughout the year.

Snezana mentioned that there is a growing interest in donating equipment, including shoes, pants, jackets, raincoats, leggings, and similar items. This humanitarian initiative aims to provide opportunities for individuals who wish to experience the mountains but cannot afford the necessary gear. The organizers emphasize that there are many people in need of this support. The detachment is thrilled by the significant interest in donations, particularly from children.

The Scouting movement in Macedonia has been active for over 70 years. This year, the Skopje Scout Organization (PSIO) is celebrating its 70th anniversary. Due to their dedicated efforts and excellent programming, membership continues to grow, according to Snezana. Currently, there are over 120 children and young people involved from Skopje.

This scout troop focuses on environmental protection and empowering youth through outreach and education. This method of engagement allows young people to develop habits for creating a better world through various humanitarian activities.

The annual program of PSIO consists of two main camps: winter and summer. In addition, they organize camps during the fall and spring. PSIO hosts three national competitions that attract over 200 scouts from across the country. Throughout the year, they offer more than 400 workshops where scouts can learn various skills. Among the most popular workshops are first aid and safety, rafting, kayaking, knot tying, hiking, campfires, topography, Morse code, archery, decorating, coded writing, cooking, plant identification, and outdoor navigation, as well as many other activities.

All those interested in joining PSIO can freely contact the Facebook or Instagram pages – First Scout Unit of Skopje.