Exceptional Boosters

Booster Roles, Responsibilities, and Expectations When Chaperoning a CIA Trip or JROTC Service Event

1. Be a Supportive Follower: Boosters do not have the burden of being in charge, making the decisions, or enforcing the rules. Enjoy the association with the cadets and the cadre. As a booster you are the quiet observer and example. AFJROTC is a cadet lead program providing a leadership laboratory where mistakes and failures are expected. The cadre are responsible for guiding cadets through the leadership process. Understand and allow the chain of command to function throughout the operations of activities. We love how boosters support and help execute the itinerary, plan, or decisions that are made by the cadets and cadre. Please save any scrutiny or suggestions for the activity, event, or trip until the after action report. Finally, help assist the cadet leadership and cadre by helping the cadets be safe and understand the "why" behind the rules. An exceptional booster helps a stray cadet make good decisions instead of enforcing the rules.

2. Be Safe: Know when to jump in and be the adult. If there is not a cadre present and you are concerned about life or limb, ACT! Additionally, lead out on common sense safety practices like hydration, sun protection, or appropriate clothing/gear for the event or activity. Bring any unsafe behavior to the attention of the cadet leadership or the cadre for correction.

3. Be an Example: We teach the cadets to be beyond reproach in speech, appearance, and all behavioral actions. All boosters that are volunteering at an event or chaperoning a trip must refrain from profanity, backbiting, gossip, and maintain positive communication. Additionally, all booster chaperones are required to maintain the same professional dress and appearance code we expect our cadets to maintain during an event or trip (e.g. no holes in pants, appropriate short length, modest tops or swimwear, and natural hair color).  Finally, we expect boosters to refrain from anything that is illegal, immoral, or unethical.

4. Be Positive: Genuinely look for the positive in the event or the trip you are supporting or chaperoning. Understand that you are likely not aware of the whole picture, so DO NOT be quick to judge, assumer, or fill in the blanks. Realize there was enormous amounts of effort, time, and growth that has transpired up to the point of the event or trip. So much good can come from the positive booster. We all know how easy it is to be cynical or critical. The exceptional booster uplifts and praises the cadets for their involvement or leadership. When you are positive, you'll enjoy the experience more.

5. Be Loving: Love these cadets like your own children. Cadets make mistakes. You are not going to love everything the cadets do.  The exceptional booster is at their absolute best positive self. The cadets must know you love them regardless of their actions. Remember, this is about the cadets... resist the temptation to take over or become the enforcer. Earning a cadet's respect happens over time by loving them into doing what is right. AVOID BEING THE BAD GUY! THAT IS THE JOB OF THE CADET LEADERSHIP OR THE CADRE!

6. Be Loyal: We expect your loyalty to the program and the principles in the midst of everything not going exactly like you think it should go. The booster that have enjoyed the experience most have spent time with the cadets by getting to know them, their dreams, and their aspirations.