Please leave the young people alone!

For some time now, I’ve been wondering whether the growing consumerist attitude in our clubs—using the facilities and nothing else—isn’t also, to some extent, due to our tireless eagerness to provide services. We provide everything—from the always well-manicured lawn to the electrical outlet—need a charger, too?—right down to transportation for the juniors, provided on demand by the parents whenever possible. This is not meant to be a criticism of youth development. However, without the young person’s own initiative and motivation—as well as the primary responsibility of the parents—this effort is about as effective as planting a tree in the desert.

Supporting youth and the next generation is not the same as member recruitment. The former is our goal, and the latter may be part of the outcome, but it should never take center stage. For example, 30 years ago, when I founded the Pro Aero youth camp, I never said that the goal was to secure the next generation of aviation professionals. But if one or two participants later end up working in aviation or become hobby pilots, that is certainly something to be welcomed. We must show young people different paths, support them when needed, and help strengthen their self-confidence and decision-making skills. Market potential and profit optimization have no place here—absolutely none!

Sincerely,
Emil Ch. Giezendanner

The opinions expressed on this page by the editor—as well as by other authors of this issue—do not necessarily reflect the official position of the SMV. Readers can find official association announcements in the “SMV” section.