THE NAVIGATORS
—by Lois Chazen
When Robin Bossert became a member of All Souls in 1997, the first responsibility he undertook was as leader of the All Souls Boy Scout troop. Not long after that, the Boy Scouts initiated discriminatory practices against atheists and “gays.” Many parents were outraged and lost faith in what once was a venerable institution. Worldwide, scouting has been an integral part of ethical and moral instruction for young people, giving them a framework to set goals and to compete for advancement through a series of achievements. Characteristically, there is a progression of accomplishments rewarded with “merit badges” which are usually sewn on the sleeve of the Scout’s uniform. Boy Scouts activities put an emphasis on the outdoors and sports. “Scout’s honor” was a familiar phrase around the globe.
Three years ago, following the cause célèbre, Robin Bossert had an inspiration. Why not launch an organization with parallel aims that was non-discriminatory in multiple ways. The Navigators is open to both boys and girls. Race, religion or national origin, religious and political views and sexual orientation are non-issues. The group meets weekly and has five levels starting at Shadow for the seven year olds, progressing through Tracker, Pilot, Navigator and the few who attain Eagle Scout status. The age range is from seven to eighteen years old.
In recent months, Robin has taken the Navigators skiing, ice-skating, and to play basketball. Camping is an important component of their outdoor activities. In addition to camping know-how, the Navigators are schooled in safety and emergency techniques. Indoor activities include visiting museums, and of course, doing the various projects which, when completed successfully, are rewarded by merit badges. Community service is high on the agenda as well.
The Navigators brochure states that the organization’s mission is, “To create a place where boys and girls ages 7 to 18 learn to work together, to achieve goals and build esteem using nature and adventure activities.” To update the Boy Scouts motto, “Be Prepared,” the Navigators prefer, “Stay On Course.”
“More adult group leaders are needed to meet the needs of young people in the community,” Robin said. “We are looking for people who can help out at weekly meetings as well as those who can teach a special skill,” he added.
In June 2004 at the UUA General Assembly in Long Beach, Robin took the opportunity to network with his counterparts in Michigan, Texas, Virginia and several other states to discuss his concept. Launching an organization with the same ideals as the Boy Scouts that will not permit any discriminatory practices was of great interest and appeal to his fellow UU Scout leaders. Robin announced that within the year, new chapters of the Navigators would be active across the country. A handbook for the Navigators is currently being compiled by McGraw Hill. |
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