My trial right now is Cub Scouts. At first I thought the hard part would be getting familiar with all the awards, ranks and advancements. Since I obviously have never participated in Scouts before, that part has been difficult to sort out. Regardless, I have plowed through and am getting a better understanding each week. The problem is not the ceremonies, or even the boys. I have a great group, and although it was supposed to be a joint calling, my other half is usually too busy to help out much. Nope, I pulled off a good pack meeting tonight, singlehandedly. With a lot of work and preparation, I had all the achievements ready to award, a fun game, song and cheers. The boys participated and had a good time. My struggle isn't even with the parents. Most of the boys have good, supportive parents who help them achieve their goals.
My problem is the administrative part. I recently completed my first purchase of awards for a pack meeting. Having been asked previously to limit my spending from the budget, I have been just paying out-of-pocket for the few supplies and snacks necessary. To my surprise, I spent over $82 on awards! Chagrined, and hoping to be reimbursed, I submitted my FIRST receipt for these symbols of my boys' achievements and hard work, only to be rebuffed and chastised for spending any money!!
Now, may I ask, what else could I have done? Not purchased the awards my Scouts have earned? Paid for them by myself like I have been doing for everything else? Waited a few months before turning in my one and only request for reimbursement?
I think it highly unfair that I was put in this position to feel guilty about spending money on something that is normal and necessary.
Does it make me a bad person to want to feel some appreciation every once in a while? Or at least more guidance as to what I should be doing?
Maybe I just take things too personally.
5 comments:
Amy, from what I have read you have not done anything wrong,quite the opposite. It sounds like you have gone above and beyond as usual and are doing a great job at being a Cub Master. Buying the patches is something you are suppose to do and yes you are suppose to be reimbursed for them. If you have to talk to your Stake President or the Stake Primary President, but they should pay you back.
Sounds really frustrating! It seems like they should reimburse you for the money you spent. Good Luck.
Amy I am so sorry! But you need to go to the Bishop and explain the situation. If it was the Bishop that already talked with you then go to the Stake Primary Pres. You ARE NOT responsible to pay for the awards. And it is not taking it too personal. I am so so sorry! Luv you!
Oh Amy, I feel your pain..I was the cub leader in California and it was extremely time consuming and frustrating. However, at least I always had money for awards. In fact the ward had a seperate budget for boy scouts and cub scouts awards. Talk to your bishop if he doesn't already know the problem because trust me I know the awards aren't cheap! good luck!
I got paid! And fast! What can I say...whining works!
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