Scouts Canada has recently announced a reduction in approximately one-third of its paid staff positions in an effort to address a persistent deficit of around $5 million. Jordan Moore, chair of Scouts Canada’s board of governors, highlighted the financial challenge by explaining that sustained deficits are not sustainable when expenses exceed revenues. Moore emphasized that without taking action, over 45,000 young participants across Canada would have been left without a Scouts Canada program to return to.
The job cuts, equivalent to 44 full-time positions distributed nationwide, are part of a series of measures implemented by the 110-year-old organization to stabilize its financial situation. Alongside the workforce reduction, Scouts Canada has raised membership fees, reduced central expenditures, and initiated efforts to divest some of its properties, which currently incur approximately $1 million in annual maintenance costs.
The impact of the pandemic on Scouts Canada has been significant, leading to a 50% decline in participation. Although national participation has increased to 45,000 youths, it remains 12,000 below the 2019 levels. Moore also mentioned unexpected legal expenses that have further strained the organization’s finances. Scouts Canada has encountered various legal challenges, including settlements and criminal cases involving former volunteers, particularly related to instances of sexual abuse.
As detailed in a recent report, Scouts Canada lacks insurance coverage for legal matters concerning incidents between 1968 and 2002. The report noted that recent legal battles have depleted funds earmarked for such purposes, with a surge in historical cases reported.
Looking ahead, Scouts Canada aims to unveil a new strategic plan in November, focusing on a “volunteer-led model” to empower adult volunteers across the country. Volunteer Kevin Beleskey, with 17 years of service, acknowledged the transition phase and the need to restructure volunteer support following the elimination of positions that directly aided volunteers in recruitment and assistance.
The organization remains hopeful that current and new volunteers will step up to assume increased responsibilities. Longtime volunteers, such as Terry Fielder, have observed a decline in group operations but express optimism that cost-saving measures will sustain scouting in Canada. Fielder and Beleskey emphasize the importance of promoting scouting opportunities to parents to foster youth development and growth.