2018 North Central/South Central Regional Conference

Counselors, Jr. Counselors, and other Cadet leaders in the North Central and South Central Regions met together at their annual conference on November 3, 2018, in Lansing, Illinois. Illiana Council did a fantastic job coordinating and hosting this year’s conference. This year’s theme – from 2 Corinthians 4:1 – “We do not lose heart.” The day-long conference was packed with opportunities for glorifying God and learning to be a more effective Cadet leader. Many Counselors and Jr. Counselors attended their respective certification classes and participated in informative discussions of the Cadets organization’s past, present, and future. Some delved more deeply into mentoring and coaching and how those approaches can be used effectively in Cadets. Several classes demonstrated ideas for projects and activities for Cadets. These “hands-on” classes were very popular, and instructed participants in the fine arts of hot air balloon construction, the making of fishing poles and flies, assembling stomp rockets, facilitating a rain gutter regatta, and more. As a result, many counselors went home with knowledge, ideas, and examples they can share with their clubs, cadres, and cadets. Times of learning were punctuated by times of praise, worship, and fellowship. A praise band led attendees in song and worship during mass meetings. The host council put together a delicious barbequed pork lunch spread. Keynote speaker Shaun Buikema reminded attendees that “we do not lose heart” and encouraged counselors to continue doing the increasingly important work of mentoring boys in a fallen world. Throughout the day and between sessions, there were opportunities to meet and greet other counselors and encourage each other. Thanks again to Illiana Council for hosting this conference, and we are confident that those who attended will be a blessing to others using what they have learned. Therefore, since through Gods’ mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. 2 Corinthians 4:1