In less than a year – a thousand and one tasks to finish – Lots to communicate…

There is still time for the FinnJamboree 2010 preparations, and the plans are coming together on every field. For many the camp next summer is still just a far-away thought, but already some milestones that are necessary for a successful camp, have been conquered. The camp site building process is one of the cornerstones of a successful youth camp. Especially on this area early preparation and dedication will show in the end product. Of course there are plenty of other issues to be dealt with; Enrolment is an on-going process, invitations for our international campers have been sent, the FinnJamboree products have been finalised and introduced and the programme is coming along well.

Based on my previous experience I can say that we are well underway and are concentrating on the right matters. For a good end result, we just have to keep working with the same enthusiasm and energy and to focus on the most important issue on any given time. Most of the tasks we will face are related to something or someone else. Good communication shall be the key to meeting all expectations and avoiding excessive amount of unnecessary work and bad mood if things do not go as assumed. Communication is in an especially important role when speaking about voluntary work. Therefore making sure that there is enough of information spread is vital - easier said than done. Although emails are effortless tools for working, their role in the communication seems to be almost too highly esteemed. It is easy to think that "I sent an email about the matter, it is sorted". Unfortunately emails quite often deal with multiple issues at the same time and message is easily misunderstood or open to interpretation When using email, it is better to write only one important and short message at a time than pile up tens of important issues in a never-ending list of questions and things to consider. When asking a question, ask one in a clear manner and expect to have an answer.

On Kilke the amount of active participants in the organisers is vast, which was shown on the grouping of chiefs and masters in the beginning of September. The gathering was a good opportunity to learn to know each other and our expectations and where every staff member currently stood. For some a year is a long time, for some it already feels to pass overwhelmingly quickly. Let us make the remaining time sufficient, let us focus on the important and communicate with each other when ever there is need.

Kilke is already coming along beautifully - it shall be an amazing scouting event and an experience for each of us participants.

Harri