The Korea Scout Association (KSA) will host the 25th World Scout Jamboree in 2023. Image used under Creative Commons licensing from World Scouting.

What I Am Thankful for this Father’s Day

A daughter’s reflection on Scouting, going to the WSJ, and her Dad

Shannon Mulligan has, like many of us, had a lot of scouting adventures. Again, like many scouts, she’s had the chance to share those adventures with her family. Shannon sat down with us to talk about why she’s excited to see the families that come to Jamboree.
In 2011, my brother had the opportunity to go to the World Scout Jamboree in Sweden. To this day, he still considers it to be his favorite experience in Scouting. Ever since then, my dad has wanted to give me the same opportunity. I could almost hear him say “2019 is our year, girl!”

For me, every experience I have been through in Scouting has been worthwhile because of my dad. The experiences we have been able to share in Scouting will always be my best and most meaningful memories. Although he sadly will not be able to attend the Jamboree, I know he is eagerly waiting to hear about it from me.

As cliché as it sounds, I am looking forward most to seeing other fathers and daughters create memories just like ours. While everyone will be able to meet with Scouters from all over the world, there are a select few father and daughter pairs that will have this same opportunity. The main difference is that they will be able to do it together. They are going to make memories just like we have been able to. I know from going through these things what a great experience it is for daughters, and I know from hearing my dad talk about it how incredible of an opportunity this will be for those other dads.

As feisty as daughters may be, we look up to our dads more than anyone. I would not be where I am in Scouting without my dad, let alone having the chance to attend one of the largest World Scouting events. So thank you for starting me on these adventures, Dad. Happy Father’s Day to you and all the dads out there. I can only hope other daughters are able to experience Scouting like we have been able to.

Shannon Mullligan is a student at the University of New Mexico, where she is studying Organizational Leadership.  Shannon is a Silver Award Venturer and served as National Venturing Vice President from 2015 – 2016. She is a member of the WSJ USA Contingent Management Team.

The post was originally posted on June 17, 2018 by

Shannon Mulligan

US Contingent Receptions and Recognitions Coordinator

The post was originally posted on June 17, 2018 by

Shannon Mulligan

US Contingent Receptions and Recognitions Coordinator

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