Parent’s Manual - 2136 C Scot R Army Cadets RCACC's Parent's Handbook 20… · Parent’s Manual...

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2136 The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps 715 Bay Street Victoria, BC V8T 1R1 (250) 363-8005 http://2136.cadets.ca Parent’s Manual 2012-2013 Training Year Army Cadet Motto ACER ACERPORIAs the Maple, so the Sapling

Transcript of Parent’s Manual - 2136 C Scot R Army Cadets RCACC's Parent's Handbook 20… · Parent’s Manual...

2136 The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s)

Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps 715 Bay Street

Victoria, BC V8T 1R1 (250) 363-8005

http://2136.cadets.ca

Parent’s Manual 2012-2013 Training Year

Army Cadet Motto “ACER ACERPORI”

As the Maple, so the Sapling

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Message from the Commanding Officer Welcome all new cadets and parents and congratulations on choosing to be

part of a nationally recognized youth development program.

The Canadian Cadet Organization (CCO) is the oldest youth program in Canada serving children 12 -18 years of age. Sponsored by the Canadian

Forces, funded through The Department of National Defense with support

from civilian navy, army and air leagues, as well as local community sponsors and parents, Cadets is offered to its young citizens, free. It is a

skill based program that prides itself on the delivery of a nationally directed curriculum dedicated to producing the leaders of our future teaching self-

discipline, building confidence and promoting independence. Cadets also provides many optional opportunities for your child to learn and grow and

meet other young people with similar interests in a safe environment, including band instruction and marksmanship teams.

The aim of the Canadian Cadet Organization is to develop good citizenship

and leadership skills in youth, promote physical fitness and stimulate an interest in the Sea, Army and Air elements of Canadian Forces. In 2004

Army Cadets celebrated its 125th Anniversary. Currently the Army Cadet program has 450 corps and more than 21,000 cadets nationally.

I am proud to be part of a program that has produced many upstanding Canadians in all walks of life, including: Capt. Maryse Carmichael, first

female Snowbird pilot, Marc Garneau and Chris Hadfield, Canadian Astronauts and Canadian actor Jim Carrey.

My door is always open.

Captain Cheryl Fearn

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Staff – Cadet Instructor Cadre (CIC) Officers are denoted by

rank.

Commanding Officer – Captain Cheryl Fearn

Training Officer – Captain Ken Logan Administration Officer – 2Lt Chelsea Wilke

Supply Officer – Lt. Stuart Armstrong 1 Platoon Cmdr – 2Lt Stephan Jones

CF Advisor – MS Ike Evans, CWO Charles Middleton

Volunteers –Mr. Terry Higgins, Mr. Tom LeBlanc, Mr. Ron Cullen Sponsor Committee Chairperson – Mr. Paul MacDonald

A brief history of the Cadet Corps This Cadet Corps was founded in February of 1944 and paraded under the

first Commanding Officer, Capt S.J. McDonald, ED. The first issue of uniform began in November of 1945. Cadets in those days took part in arms and foot

drill training, map-reading, range work with the rifle and Bren guns, tactics, shooting and regimental history. Shortly after the end of WWII a Pipe and

Brass Band was formed.

On July 30, 1975 the National Defence Act was amended allowing young women to enrol as cadets.

In 2009, 2136 The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) RCACC

celebrated the 65th Anniversary of its first parade. Seven original Cadets from that first Parade were in attendance. The Cadet Corps has remained

affiliated to the Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) and continues to use its traditional highland uniform for ceremonial purposes. The

definitive history of the Corps can be found in - “Ready for the Fray, the

History of the Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) 1920 to 2002”

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General Information

Cadets parade on Thursday night from 6:15 – 9:00 pm. The usual dress for parade nights is in uniform. On regular parade nights the cadets will be

learning new skills, practicing drill, and participating in group discussions or projects.

Sport’s night is Friday night from 6:15 -9:00 pm. The usual dress for Sports

night is fitness ready. On this night cadets participate in various team sports as well as fitness testing several times throughout the year. The Shooting

Team, Drill Team and First Aid may practice during this time. Most proficiency badges are awarded based on Friday night’s activities. Kit

exchange is on Fridays from 6:30pm – 8:30 pm, this is the time to exchange uniform parts that are too small, in ill repair or have new kit issued.

Canteen is open for Cadets both nights around 8:00 pm and Cadets can purchase snacks, boot polish and Kiwi clothes while in supply. No more than

$2 is recommended unless purchasing miscellaneous supplies.

The last Thursday of every month is the Commanding Officer’s Parade (commonly referred to as the C. O.’s Parade). Parents and friends are

welcome and encouraged to attend. The cadets may receive awards and promotions on this night as well as demonstrate their drill and musical

abilities.

Effective communication is essential for any successful relationship and that includes the one between the office and parents. In order to keep parents

apprised of what is going on, an easy to navigate website has been developed and will contain pertinent information regarding training and

optional activities. The website will contain information from each

department for the upcoming month. Included will be any permission slips required, (with return date) the training schedule outlining all planned

events and any awards, promotions or accolades revealed during the past month.

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1. The Aim of the Royal Canadian Army Cadet Program

The aim of the Organizations is:

a) To develop in youth the attributes of good citizenship and

leadership b) To promote physical fitness

c) To stimulate the interest of youth in the sea, land and air activities

of the Canadian Forces.

The army cadet program emphasizes activities involving all aspects of outdoor and adventure training.

Cadets are NOT members of the Canadian Forces, nor are they under

any expectation of a future military career or obligation to join the military at any time. The adult training staff is comprised of officers of

the Canadian Forces reserve Cadet Instructors Cadre (CIC).

2. Mottos

The Royal Canadian Army Cadet motto:

“Acer Acerpori” “As the maple, so the sapling”

The Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) motto:

“Deas Gu Cath” “Ready for the Fray”

3. Membership Requirements

To be eligible for membership in the Royal Canadian Army Cadets a

candidate must:

a) have reached his/her 12th, but not 19th birthday; b) not belong to another Cadet unit; and

c) be a Canadian Citizen or landed immigrant, or be an international student under the guardianship of a citizen or

landed immigrant.

Cadets with physical or medical limitations may join Army Cadets, but may be excluded from certain activities, including summer training.

The safety and well-being of the cadet is the major consideration and determining factor.

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Parents should be aware that if a cadet is not capable of attending

weekend training exercises and/or summer training, the cadet may not be eligible for promotion, summer training or other awards. This does

not mean that a cadet cannot have a rewarding career, in spite of limitations.

New cadets must provide the Corps with a certified photocopy of their

Birth Certificate, BC Care Card with their Personal Health Number, and Government Issued Identification (such as BC driver’s license, BC ID,

or Passport). (There is a photocopier available in the office for this purpose.) A number of enrolment and medical forms must be

completed and signed by a parent or legal guardian.

There is no enrolment fee to join Army Cadets. Cadets are required to assist with Corps fundraising efforts throughout the year to help off-

set some training and administration costs that may be encountered.

There are no ‘out-of-pocket’ charges for the cadet uniform, but payment may be required for damage or neglect of uniform or other

items on loan to the cadet.

4. Training

The national Army Cadet Training Program provides a wide range of

course instruction and supporting activities to meet the interests of

cadets. All cadets are provided with notebooks and reference material.

New cadets begin their training with Drill and General Cadet

Knowledge, giving them an introduction to the origin and development of the cadet movement; an understanding of the military/cadet rank

structure; and an appreciation for the wear and care of the uniform. Cadets then move on to subjects such as Citizenship, Physical Fitness,

Sensible Living, Effective Speaking, Adventure Training, and Marksmanship and Firearms Safety.

All cadets are required to participate in community service activities,

fund-raising, field exercises, sports, and citizenship activities throughout the year.

Each cadet will receive information on timings for Corps’ activities throughout the training year. It is important that the various timings

are met so activities can be started on time as well as concluded within the allotted time frame as well. With that said, each cadet must be at

an activity on time, but not to exceed 15 minutes early. The same is true for when activities have concluded, cadets must be picked-up on

time. The Corps’ adult staff are volunteers, and most have full-time

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occupations outside of the Corps, so excessive delays in picking-up of

your son/daughter/ward does create a negative impact. Please keep in mind, if your son/daughter/ward will be early/late to an activity or

your will be late to pick-up please contact the adult staff member in charge of the activity to see what can be arranged. Please note that

the adult staff and officers are not insured to carry Cadets in their personal vehicles, and cannot drive Cadets after an activity.

Regular Training

Cadets participate in weekly lessons (LHQ Training). The areas of

training include: drill, fundamental training, bush craft, map and compass, marksmanship, leadership, citizenship, physical fitness and

instructional techniques. Cadets move through several levels of training beginning with Green Star, then Red Star, followed by Silver

Star and Gold Star. When a Cadet is in their Gold Star year, he/she

will be registered in the National Star of Excellence (NSE) training program. As Cadets move through the NSE program they can apply for

Master Cadet. They can apply to summer camp as a staff cadet and may be eligible for national or international expeditions. Once certified

he/she is then qualified to instruct cadets in other star levels at the Corps.

Field Training Exercises (FTX’s)

Cadets look forward to the Field Training Exercises scheduled throughout the training year. During these weekend exercises cadets

learn, and are given the opportunity to practice, core skills such as, constructing a bivouac site, tying knots, various other bush craft

components and map and compass. In addition, applications of leadership qualities are assessed during navigation and orienteering

events.

Permission slips and kit lists will be posted on the website and/or sent home with your cadet along with directions to the location of the

training site the month prior to the exercise. There is a standard kit list in Appendix I.

Optional Training

Marksmanship Team

Cadets can participate in the shooting program learning self-discipline, acceptance of responsibility and respect for firearms. The focus is

safety, qualification, and improving our standings in provincial

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competitions. Firing the Daisy Air Rifle will occur on the range

concurrently with Friday evening sports, on a rotational basis.

Pipes and Drums Band Program

Cadets have the option of receiving music training as the Corps has a fully active Pipes and Drums Band. Cadets can choose the Bagpipes,

Snare, Bass or Tenor Drum. The Pipes and Drums perform annually in the Ceilidh, Tattoo, and Highland Games and participate in different

competitions throughout the year. They may also perform at Christmas time in various locations. The band practices weekly on

Tuesday evenings (Junior Band 6:30 – 7:30pm and Senior Band 7:30 – 9:00pm) and performs monthly at the CO’s Parade.

Fundraising is an integral component of the Pipes and Drums program

due to the significant cost of the highland kit, music equipment and

supplies that are not supported financially by Cadets Canada. Training is supported with band clinics and instructors such as Honour Band,

and Spring & Summer Training in Vernon.

Drill Team

A precision drill team is put together each year for competition and Annual Ceremonial Review display purposes. The drill team is a very

disciplined and creative team developing their own routines with and without non-functioning arms. All cadets are welcome to come and

tryout. Practices are held Friday evenings at 5:30pm, 1hr prior to sports night.

First Aid Team

The First-Aid team trains for competitions and our Annual Ceremonial Review display. First aid training will be provided during the training

year on various dates.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award Program

The Duke of Edinburgh Program is a self-directed development program for young adults from 14 – 25 years of age. There are three

award levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold each with specific criteria and time limitations. The cadet program is structured in a way that allows

cadets to achieve the goals he/she need to set in the four compulsory categories: community service, skills, physical recreation and

adventurous journeys.

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Please speak to one of the officers for more information or go to

http://www.dukeofed.org/

5. Summer Training

A highlight for cadets is attending summer camp. Cadets joining prior to December 31 of a training year are eligible for summer training.

Each course has its own prerequisites for selection. The course

requirements will be posted early in January of each year. Parents and cadets are encouraged to check the Corps notice boards and website

for information on various summer courses that might be of interest. Applications for camp are issued at the beginning of January and the

application process is reviewed with the parents at a meeting called by the Administration Officer. The selection process takes several months

and not all cadets who apply are accepted. Due to the limited number of spaces available, parent/guardians and cadets should be aware that

they may not be selected to attend summer training every year, or they may not be selected for their first choice. The final decision is

made at the Provincial level. A cadet’s attitude, attendance, participation and training record are all taken into consideration and

only a certain number of spots are allocated annually to each corps. Cadets who are selected are notified as soon as possible and cadets

who are not selected will be placed on a waiting list, with a strong

possibility that they may be selected anytime up to the course start date. Each year the majority of cadets from our Corps that apply, are

accepted.

In addition, senior cadets with the appropriate qualifications may be

eligible for international exchange. Senior cadets who are 16 years and older may apply for paid staff positions at the summer training

centers. For cadets who are attending summer training in Vernon there is a Summer Camp Guide which is available on the Vernon Summer

Training Centre web page http://www.cadets.ca/army-armee/Summer_Training/ and a video is available on YouTube

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfavqPLpvss that many will find helpful and inspiring.

Physical and medical limitations may preclude some cadets from

attending certain courses. There is no charge to parents for cadets

attending summer training. Transportation, rations, quarters, and training are all provided by the Canadian Forces.

Summer training is progressive and cadets may apply to attend the

following Basic and Introductory Specialty Courses after completion of the requisite training levels:

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General Training (2 weeks)

Basic Marksman (3 weeks) Basic Musician, Military or Pipe Band (3 weeks)

Basic Leadership (3 weeks) Basic Expedition (3 weeks)

Basic Fitness and Sports (3 weeks) Air Rifle Marksmanship Instructor (6 weeks)

Marksmanship Full-bore Phase 1 (6 weeks) Intermediate Musician, Military or Pipe Band (6 weeks)

Expedition Instructor (6 weeks) Drill and Ceremonial Instructor (6 weeks)

Fitness and Sports Instructor (6 weeks) Marksmanship Full-bore Phase 2

Advanced Musician (Military or Pipe Band) Leadership and Challenge

Staff Cadet

Basic Parachutist International Exchange (varies)

Staff Positions

6. Parent/Guardian Responsibility for Uniforms

After a recruit has completed all necessary paperwork he/she will be

measured for a uniform. The initial cadet uniform is provided by the Department of National Defense at no cost to the parent/guardian.

Cadets are first issued a standard cadet uniform, often referred to as the “pickle suit”. This consists of dark green slacks and tunic, light

green shirt, tie, belts (2), parade boots and as we are a Highland

Corps, cadets are issued a Glengarry in place of the standard beret for head dress. The uniform may be issued from the rack if there is

sufficient stock in Supply. If not, it is ordered and can take 2-3 weeks to arrive. In the interim, the recruit should attend parade nights

wearing long pants (preferably not jeans) and a dress shirt - best dress. The cadet is responsible for the care of his/her own uniform.

Cadets will be inspected to ensure that boots are polished, tunic, shirt and slacks are clean and pressed and all components are worn (i.e. tie

when required, belt, and head dress). Cadets can find dress descriptions, complete with picture references and regulations on the

http://www.2136cadets.ca website.

Cadets and their parents/guardians are responsible for all items on loan, throughout the cadet’s career. The approximate value of the

complete cadet uniform w/combats is $500.00. When a cadet has

moved up in the organization, by attaining the rank of Corporal or becomes a member of the senior band he/she is issued Highland kit.

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In addition to the previously listed kit, the cadet receives a dark green

cutaway Jacket, oxfords, 2 types of socks, two sporrans (one white and one brown) and a kilt. The Highland kit is either owned by the

Sponsoring Committee or on loan to the Cadet Corps by the Canadian Scottish Regiment, the Old Guard and various other benefactors. The

wearing of Highland Kit is an honour bestowed to only a few Cadet Corps in Canada. The Highland kit is very expensive and costs roughly

$1800.00 to replace (the kilt its self is worth $800.00 +). Please ensure that your Cadet takes proper care of their Highland kit. A “Care

of Highland Kit” sheet will be issued along with the uniform. The Glengarry like all Highland Kit is purchased and owned by the

Sponsoring Committee thus the cadet and parent may be responsible for its monetary value should it be lost or damaged beyond repair.

Cadets who have Highland kit and who do not require it for Summer Training are directed to sign their Highland kit back into the Corps at

the end of the training year (post ACR) and it will be re-issued again in

September.

Appendix II must be completed before Highland Kit can be issued.*

*As with the Glengarry, damaged or lost highland kit may result in the cadet and parent being responsible for monetary losses at the

discretion of the Sponsoring Committee Executive.*

Please ensure that items are not lost. Outgrown or lost clothing will be replaced through Supply. However, repeated loss due to carelessness

may result in the parent/guardian being charged for replacement. The complete uniform is to be returned to the Corps as soon as possible if

a cadet leaves the unit.

Cadets have the opportunity to attend the Annual Mess Dinner. The

uniform for this event is the cadets usual parade uniform except that the cadets will wear a white shirt and black bow tie replacing the green

shirt and necktie. The bow ties can be purchased or, if sufficient quantities are on hand, signed out from stores. Cadets can also sign

out various other items from Stores/Supply if quantities permit. Supply has a limited selection of combats, combat boots, rucksacks,

wool sweaters, and sleeping bags. The majority of items are signed out on a temporary load card and cadets are responsible for returning

these items in a timely manner. Friday evenings are the only time that these items will be normally signed out.

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7. Partnerships

The Army Cadet Organization is sponsored by the Canadian Forces in partnership with the civilian Army Cadet League of Canada. Each has

its own well-defined responsibilities within the partnership.

The Canadian Forces, funded by the Department of National Defence is responsible for:

a) enrolling and training Corps Canadian Forces Staff and Civilian

Instructors; b) the Cadet Training Program, including spring and summer training;

and

c) uniforms and material to support the basic army cadet training program.

The Army Cadet League of Canada is responsible for:

a) making recommendations for the establishment of cadet corps;

b) recommending persons for enrolment in the Canadian Forces as Cadet Instructors;

c) screening civilian volunteers; d) securing a suitable training location and stores;

e) providing training aids and equipment including adventure training, and band instruments and other equipment not provided by the

Canadian Forces; f) coordinating public relations programs which is a joint

responsibility; and

g) Fund-raising (local sponsor) to support local activities.

The Canadian Forces and The Army Cadet League of Canada have parallel command structures for the support of the Canadian Cadet

movement. There are three levels in the command structures starting at the National level, with the Directorate of Cadets at The Department

of National Defence Headquarters (DND HQ) on the military side, and the National Executive of the Army Cadet League of Canada on the

civilian side.

The second level (regional) is represented on the military side by the specific regional cadet support unit making us part of the Regional

Cadet Support Unit – Pacific. On the civilian side The Army Cadet League of Canada is represented by the Army Cadet League of BC.

At the third (local) level, the military is represented by the Corps

officers, under the leadership of the Corps Commanding Officer. Like all reserve members of the Canadian Forces, Officers come from a

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wide variety of backgrounds. Some may have former regular or

reserve service in the Canadian Forces, others are former cadets and yet others are members of the community at large and/or may be

parents of cadets. Most cadet instructors are members of the Cadet Instructor Cadre (CIC), which is the largest officer branch of the

Canadian Forces. All corps officers are paid for a limited number of days each year but they also contribute many volunteer hours to the

corps outside of their regular professions.

The civilian side (The Army Cadet League of BC) is represented by the Sponsoring Committee, which is primarily made up of parents of

cadets who are members of 2136 ‘CScotR’ RCACC. With that being said, anyone in the local community can be a member of the local

Sponsoring Committee, ranging from a City Councillor to a manager of the local Department Store, a bus driver to a retired member of the

Canadian Forces.

8. The Sponsoring Committee

An elected Executive Committee, headed by a Chairperson, administers the Sponsoring Committee and meets monthly in the

Cadet Corps LHQ (The Bay Street Armoury) on the last Thursday of every month. All cadet parents are invited to attend these meetings to

keep up-to-date on corps activities. An officer representing the staff

attends all Sponsoring Committee meetings to keep the parents up-to-date and answer any questions that arise. The Annual General Meeting

(AGM) is when elections are conducted and it is normally held each November. All are welcome with voting members paying annual dues

at or before this meeting ($2.00 per individual or $3 per family).

All parents automatically become members of the Sponsoring Committee upon the enrolment of their son/daughter and are expected

to contribute time throughout the year in support of the Corps. Responsibilities include: fund raising, public relations, canteen, special

events, and the provision of transportation when cadets participate in activities away from the Corps HQ (i.e. competitions, survival

exercises, parades, etc.) A form is included as Appendix III

The Sponsoring Committee’s role is to provide support for the Cadet

Corps in partnership with the CIC Officers. The Sponsoring Committee is charged with raising funds for activities and providing support when

requested by the officers. The executive committee consists of a Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. There are various other

committees including: Telephone Tree, Fund-raising and Special Events. There are no fees to join Cadets and uniforms are supplied,

however the Cadet Corps has various expenses that include insurance

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(approximately $18 per cadet), Highland Kit (Kilts etc.) & equipment

for cadet activities {abseiling-ropes, harnesses; shooting-mats, slings; special events - hot meals on exercises like Mt Washington Trip} that

are not covered by DND. At various times throughout the year your Cadet will be required to participate in fundraising events. Parent

volunteers on fund raising events are essential to their success.

9. Promotions/Appointments

Promotions/appointments through the ranks are based on qualifications established by national Army Cadet Policy, combined

with local corps standards. Criteria for promotion/appointment includes time served in rank, training level achieved, completion of courses,

participation, merit, and comparison with other candidates. Each corps has a quota for each rank, based on its total enrolment. Therefore, it is

possible that a cadet may meet the basic requirements but not be promoted/appointed because there are insufficient vacancies to

promote all eligible cadets.

10. Final Words

It is hoped that this handout has provided valuable information and

answered many of your questions about the Royal Canadian Army Cadet Organization, in general, and 2136 ‘CScotR’ RCACC, in

particular. On behalf of the staff and cadets of the Corps I am proud to welcome you to the Corps’ family and thank you for allowing this

organization to be a part of your family. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact the undersigned.

//original signed by//

Cheryl Fearn

Captain Commanding Officer

250-363-8005 (Corps)

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Appendix I –Kit List

Standard Kit List for Most Exercises

Required Kit

Combat Clothing (Military issue or personal) Toiletries -

Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Soap/Towel

Appropriate Weather Clothing including Jacket,

gloves, head dress

Mess Kit -

Knife/Fork/Spoon/Plate/Bowl/Mug

Rain Gear Writing Material

Combat Boots or Hiking Boots Sleeping Bag

Running Shoes Sleeping apparel

Under Garments Flashlight and spare batteries

Optional Kit

Camouflage Gear Combat Webbing

Tips

Cotton clothing is not recommended, as it does not retain heat when it is wet - this

includes jeans.

Clothing that is loose and layered helps to insulate and can be removed to prevent over

heating.

Clothes that can remove moisture from the skin are highly beneficial.

Prohibited Items

Firearms or Fake Firearms

Knives of any Kind

Games

iPod's

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Appendix III - Volunteer

Parent support is essential for the success of the

Corps.

Please indicate the areas that you are able to help

with.

**These events are held multiple times during the

year.

*These events are held once per year.

Those without an asterisk are ongoing

Parents are asked to volunteer a minimum of two (2) days per year as a contribution to the program that benefits their children

so much.

Please return this form when you attend at the next Sponsoring Committee meeting. Thank you.

Telephone committee

Driving

**Tag days support (4-8)

*Mess Dinner set-up (4)

*Mess Dinner servers (6)

*Mess Dinner clean-up(4)

**FTX Dinner preparation (2-3)

**FTX Dinner Serving (2-3)

**Clinic lunch prep/serve (2-3)

*Annual Review Committee

* Special Events Committee

**Bottle Drive Support (15)

Executive Committee Members

Fund-raising Committee

*Mess Dinner Committee