National Accolade for BB Leader
Friday 23rd March 2018A BB leader with over 50 years’ experience was a winner at YouthLink Scotland’s Youth Worker of the Year awards.
Alistair Whitelaw, who has been with the 1st Lenzie Company since 1965, was awarded the Lifetime Achievement award for his work with young people.
Throughout his involvement with the organisation, Alistair has led many young people to successfully complete their Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) awards, for which he was recognised for in 2016 with a DofE Lifetime Achievement honour on behalf of HRH Prince Edward.
Alistair has been responsible for countless events and activities, not least the annual BB Christmas card delivery in Lenzie, which in the last three years alone, has raised over £2,000 for charities in Glasgow.
Alistair, who is 77 and still very much active with the company, said:
“When the news came through about the Lifetime Achievement award I was speechless. My family and friends are over the moon.
“The BB is 135 years old, but it matters more than ever nowadays. It’s so important that there are organisations and people around to help young people follow the right path.
“It’s also so useful for their prospects for work – particularly if they can achieve the Queen’s Badge and Duke of Edinburgh’s awards. I explain to the boys in the Company that having these achievements on your CV really makes a difference and sets you apart. Receiving these awards says a lot about you as a person – your character, your respect and commitment.
“Being part of The BB really sets you up for life’s opportunities”.
John Sharp, Director for Scotland, The Boys’ Brigade, said:
“Alistair is an inspiration and we’re honoured to have him share his thoughts and experience with our members for over 50 years.
“He’s dedicated his time and service to the BB and Duke of Edinburgh awards schemes, and helped hundreds of young people real their full potential in the completion of the awards.
“We are so fortunate to have people like Alistair who give of their time and talent to help shape young lives. A thank you to Alistair and indeed all the volunteer leaders across Scotland who help young people to learn, grow and discover.”
Alistair, when he finds time to do things outside of BB, enjoys driving the iconic red coloured City Sightseeing double decker buses in around Glasgow.
Discover more about volunteering opportunities within the BB here.
