Toby Suzuki, Chairman
of the Yokohama Group 87
After working for IBM for 36 years, I finally retired the comapny in October 2007 at the age of 63, and then I joined to Tokai University Educational System as a postretirement job. As I recall, Tokai University established the first Rover Group in the campus about 45 years ago. At that time, my father was a Rover Leader when he was a Chief Professor of the Engineering Faculty of Tokai University. Ｉwas extremely excited to see that Rover Scouting is still active in Tokai Univeresity after 45 years, in consequence of continuous effort of active scout leaders.
I also learnt that many of the former Rovers are actively involved in the various fields in the business and financial circles. And I rediscovered and recognized the value of the Scouting. Yes, that’s it, the Scout Movement is the real educational system for the youth with the value of based on the Promise and Law., in order to develop youth who can contribute to the society and take a constructive role. And the ultimate goal is to create peace and better world。The fruit of our efforts will be crowned within 20 and 30 years later. To see young people who will contribute to the society is our true award for our efforts.
The Scout Movement started in 1907 in United Kingdom. Last year was the 100 years of cerebration. 40,000 scouts and 200,000 observers from all over the world gathered and hold the 21st World Scout Jamboree in United Kingdom. From Yokohama Group 87 , there were 7 scouts and leaders who have attended the memorable Jamboree. During the Jamboree, we renewed our Promise and Law.at the Sunrise Cewremony at Brown Sea Island in August 1, 2007. I saw many Scouts determine the renew of the Promise and Law by giving in to tears. Scouting is the only movement which continues over one hundred years. This is the claer evidence that Scouting has the real value.
We are now in the New Scouting Century. Now, Twenty years after Yokohama Group 87 giving a part of our membership to Yokohama Group 129. Yokohama Group 87 is constantly growing our membership and last year, we have brought up 12th Fuji Scouts in our group. Yokohama Group 87 received the Class A from the Scout Association of Japan. We are very proud that our Yokohama Group 87 is continuously enriching the quality of scouting.
