Jacqui Millar

Scout Group Lauderdale Scout Group
Role – Group Treasurer

Any former Scouting experience? I had no official experience in Scouting but before joining Lauderdale Scouts, my husband (who used to be a Leader in Lauder before Lauderdale Scout Group became Lauderdale Scout Group) and I used to go around different campsites to test them out to see if they would be suitable for the Group to attend. I also attended a couple of the camps as an extra helper.

I did attend Brownies and Guides when I was younger. Which I know is not quite the same. I was a very adventurous teen and enjoyed trips with the school to do abseiling, hillwalking, windsurfing etc.

Your role as Group Treasurer and other ways to help

As a Treasurer, you need to have a head for numbers, which I am happy to say I do. I love a good spreadsheet, the more complicated the better. Although, when I started, the accounts were done on a spreadsheet, I’m glad to say we have come a long since and use accountancy software. We used Xero for a year but when Online Scout Manager brought out their own accountancy tool we switched to that and all I can say is that wow it is absolutely brilliant and so easy to use. I don’t know what I would do without it now!

I not only act as the Treasurer but I also manage the Hall Bookings and maintain the Group’s website which I enjoy doing very much. Having a child that has gone through from Beavers to Explorer/Young Leader and a child that is currently in Cubs I make sure to help out at individual and group events.

Why did you start  volunteering with Scouts?
I joined when my daughter wanted to join Beavers and was kindly ‘invited’ into volunteering by Andy Beaumont our Group Scout Leader and now District Commissioner. To be fair, I totally enjoy this kind of stuff so it was perfect for me to do something I liked and also help out a community group. Because I enjoy doing the things I am doing for the Lauderdale Scout Group what I do doesn’t feel like ‘work’.

What is the best thing you’ve done while volunteering with Scouts?

For me, so far, the best thing I have accomplished was when I was in my original role and when I created and set up our first website. I did have a little experience with websites and how to update content etc but this was next level. Creating a new site from scratch was something new for me and I loved it. I learned so much along the way. We now use Scouts Online and it’s great, well supported by the owners and they are quick in replying if I have a query.

Have you learned anything new as a volunteer?
I have increased my knowledge and skillset around website building/design and maintenance. And had fun along the way.

What would you say to anyone who is thinking of volunteering with Scouts?

Just do it. It is so worthwhile and fulfilling knowing that you are involved with a Scout Group and helping that Group thrive.

Aged 18+?
Volunteer with us

Adult

Volunteers

It’s #GoodForYou. Volunteering’s not just about giving back, it improves your wellbeing, gives you skills for the future, and helps you make new friends

Aged 18+?
Volunteer with us

Adult

Volunteers

more info

look wider

contact us

Aged 18+?Volunteer with us

Adult

Volunteers

more info

look wider

contact us

Aged 18+?
Volunteer with us