NMMA partners with Scout programs
CHICAGO – The National Marine Manufacturers Association, which organizes the Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show, has partnered with Chicago-area Girl Scout and Boy Scout programs to offer kids the opportunity to earn the industry’s Discover Boating patch during the 2005 event, it reported in a statement today.
Separate partnerships with each organization will allow as many as 10,000 youth the opportunity to experience the boating and fishing lifestyle during the show’s 75th anniversary, January 19-23, NMMA stated.
The Discover Boating patch was created as a fun way to educate both Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts on the benefits of outdoor recreation, according to the association.
“The Discover Boating patch is an excellent way for Girl Scouts to discover how much fun there is to be had outdoors,” said Brooke Wiseman, CEO of Girl Scouts of Chicago. “Engaging these young girls in interactive boating and fishing activities is a great way to help them develop skills that will be useful for years to come.”
“Interacting with professionals in the boating and fishing industry as part of the Discover Boating patch program is a way to introduce the Boy Scouts to role models who enjoy the outdoors for a living,” said Anthony Gibbs, assistant scout executive, Chicago Area Council, BSA.
The Discover Boating patch program will offer free admission to any Girl Scout or Boy Scout wearing their official uniform to the show.
Each Girl Scout and Boy Scout will check-in at the Discover Boating Center at the front entrance of the show and receive a map outlining four learning stations. Once all four stations have been visited, participating Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts will return to the Discover Boating Center to receive the Discover Boating patch.
The four learning stations will include:
“We’re thrilled to be able to offer the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts an opportunity to experience the outdoors and learn what it takes to nurture their boating and fishing skills,” said Jennifer Faulk, manager for the Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show. “We believe this is a great way to show Chicago youth how much fun there is to be had outdoors while building their confidence as they grow and participate in various recreational activities.”
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