Philmont Parents Rally

A suggested program for early fall.

Purpose of the Meeting

• To acquaint parents and youth with Philmont and the risk advisory
• To share with them the calendar of events leading up to departure for Philmont
• To inform them of procedures regarding payment of fees, Philmont medical forms, equipment needs, travel itinerary to and from Philmont, age requirement
• To introduce expedition leadership

Opening

Philmont maps posted on wall with photos of previous trips. Table with snapshots, souvenirs, mementos from Philmont, etc. Display personal equipment needed and have a backpacking demonstration.

Meeting

• Welcome and Introductions
• What Is Philmont?
  • A talk by a youth or adviser who has been to Philmont and slides of previous expeditions, Philmont's VCR presentation Philmont - The Right Stuff or VCR presentation Introduction to the National High-Adventure Bases (available from council office or Philmont's Tooth of Time Traders). Keep this fast-paced and limited to 30 minutes.
  • Read and distribute copies of risk advisory to parents.
• Administrative Details
  • Explain budget and items within budget (use flip chart or handouts).
  • Reminder of fee payments; emphasize deadline dates.
  • Travel Plans, Instructions
  • Uniform
  • Pack for those items needed at Philmont. Mention rental opportunity of pack and frame at Philmont for those who do not want to invest in equipment.
  • Small carrying bag for items essential while traveling.
  • Boots for hiking - lightweight, comfortable, and well broken in.
  • Guide for spending money; how much?
  • Review organization of crews.
  • Review plans for shakedown hike and camp.
• Physical Preparation
  • Philmont medical forms
  • Weight guidelines
  • Review plan for team building and smooth communication.
  • Distribute application forms if needed and collect fees.
  • Question-and-answer period
• Closing; Philmont Hymn is suggested.

Note: Additional organization meetings may be necessary.

Suggestions for Subsequent Meetings

Plan a cookout using dehydrated and freeze-dried menus and invite parents.