Boys' Brigade 125th Anniversary

October, 2008 will see the 125th Anniversary of boys' Brigade. As well as celebrations, the Brigade hopes to use this opportunity for development, particularly in starting new BB Companies.

Engage a Generation

This is a national initiative to start 125 new BB groups by October 2008. It also prompts the Brigade to explore new ways of working with churches and with young people.

See YouTube video

The Battalion 2008 Team will be looking at development opportunities in S E Essex, sending promotional material to churches and requesting the chance to meet to discuss how BB can support them in their youth ministries.

Publicity

We have produced car stickers (available from the Secretary) for members and friends to display.

We have four banners which will rotate between the companies, changing over at the end of April and September so all companies can have use if they so wish. Currently the 1st, 22nd, 23rd, & 25th are displaying them.

Another banner is for special company events. The 10th have this as they are restarting Junior Section in February. A sixth banner will be displayed at Battalion events.

The Team are investigating

Posters - Fly poster drums and official Council notice boards

Local Press

Static displays in local shopping Centres / Libraries

Development

Starting in spring 2009:

Specific target list of churches who once had BB

General mailing to churches without structured youth work

Power Point presentation for use in such follow ups

Possible “pastors” breakfast as a one off event

BB Old boys online forum

Events in 2008

BB Adventure Island Day- 4th October 2008

Christian Out reach concert  for age 11+ (November)

Carnival Participation (16th August)

Anchor Party (spring 2008)

Inflatable Fun Day for Anchors & Juniors (21st June)

Service of thanksgiving for BB aimed at ex members (Sunday 12th October)

Projects

Reconstituted BB Band

Fund raising project for non associated charities - We hope to raise £ 1250. Suggested events include a cuury evening, sponsored London / Southend bike ride, supermarket bag packing.

Response

The 2008 Team need responses from the battalion to assess support for these ideas. Please send any comments or suggestions to Glen Johnson (Secretary)