Just because an organization has existed for a century doesn’t guarantee that it will be around for another 100 years. Even the most iconic, venerated institutions must struggle to keep up with the times, remain relevant, and ensure that their messages are continuing to be heard.
Years of declining membership prompted the Girl Scouts, founded in 1912, to shed an old-fashioned image with a “brand revitalization” campaign. The group revamped its logo and began to reach out to Spanish-speaking populations. To combat stagnating membership, Camp Fire, a similar organization founded in 1910, conducted 31 focus groups across the country. Camp Fire ultimately dropped its tag line, “Today’s kids. Tomorrow’s leaders,” because young people today “feel like they can be leaders right now,” explained Camp Fire CEO Cathy Tisdale.
Comments
"Fresh Blood" + "Red Cross" = Funny!
Say what you will about the Red Cross. They were of great help and comfort when I was in the Military. The A.R.C. is ALWAYS there to help. Fires, Floods, Man Made Disasters.....they show up with food, blankets, hot food, and sympathetic folks to just listen. This was a timely piece. The only troubling thing about it is what the CEO of Camp Fire, (a fine organization!),said about todays youth. "They feel like they can lead already." I learned in the Marines that in order to lead, you must be able to follow. Don't see that trait in many of our young people. Just a feeling of entitlement that tells them they are fine as they are, needing no training, mentoring, or seasoning. They shouldn't exprience consequences for bad decisions, hard times, or struggle. The Scouts, Camp Fire, Boys and Girls Clubs, Red Cross Training Programs, etc, should be aware of these attitudes and correct them. Jeeez, what a rant! Sorry, too much coffee.