Пласт Організація Української Молоді
BIO
Canadian Plast is a member of the world-wide Plast community which holds a conference every 3 years. Every five years, Plast organizes an international jamboree. In 2007 such a jamboree was held in Ontario to mark the 95th anniversary of Plast.
The aim of Plast is to bring up youth to be conscientious, responsible and valuable citizens of their local, national and world communities and to foster the development of leadership skills. Plast uses tested means of development which are incorporated into activities for all age levels – meetings and gatherings, hikes and camps. Plast summer camps are the apex of the year’s activities and give youth the opportunity to develop responsibility, self discipline and teamwork.
Plast members are divided into four age groups: novak (comparable to scouting’s cubs) from 6 to 11 years of age; yunak (comparable to scouting’s scout) from 12 to 18 years of age; older plastuny (as scouting’s rovers) from 18 to 35 and seniors – those over 35. Novak and yunak groups conduct their activities in groups of 6 to 12 members (scouting’s patrols) under the guidance of a counsellor – a member of Plast from the older two age groups. The self-development program of Plast is based on a system of proby (challenges) which serve also as a measure of the acquisition of know-how and maturity. To ensure a multifarious program, a system of merit badges is used.. Counsellors are encouraged to conduct all activities in the Ukrainian language and a working knowledge of the Ukrainian language is a condition of membership. This means that Plast must work together with parents and Ukrainian schools.
Leadership training programs are held to prepare Plast members to become counsellors, a separate training program for cub leaders and scout leaders. Such training sessions are held under the guidance of the National Executive of Plast
Plast members wear uniforms to foster identification and membership in the group and use a system of badges to demonstrate achievements and encourage a culture of self-betterment.
