Louveteaux jouant au ballon prisonnier

Exploring: a modern pedagogy

As a method with over a century of history, Explorers are based on human values, which is why it remains relevant today. Imagined by Lord Baden-Powell in 1907 and adapted to Catholicism by Father Jacques Sevin in the 1920s, the Explorers not only offer unique adventures but also age-appropriate pedagogies.

As a result, young people from 6 to 24 years old develop resourcefulness, autonomy, respect for others, a sense of service, and civic-mindedness. Through play, outdoor life, and life within their units, children and youth form strong friendships and acquire self-confidence, enabling them to become responsible individuals capable of engaging in their community.

Procession de Corpus Christi avec la Brooklyn FNE

With the F.N.E. (Federation of North-American Explorers, become a joyful Catholic and citizen.

The F.N.E. was created in July 1999 in Canada by Paul Richi. Starting from scratch, Paul and a few others gathered funds and goodwill to establish a movement based on the fundamental principles of Scouting as envisioned by Lord Baden-Powell.

In collaboration with families, we aim to contribute to the formation of children and youth to help them thrive. Health and physical development, practical skills, character formation, sense of God, and service are the guiding principles adapted to each age group that contribute to making our youth radiant Catholics and active citizens committed to serving others.

The F.N.E. offers differentiated activities for girls and boys, along with pedagogy tailored to each age group: 6-7 years (Otters); 8-12 years (Timber Wolves); 12-16 years (Explorers); and 17-24 years (Wayfarers, not currently available in Brooklyn).

Louvettes de la Brooklyn FNE prête pour une course en sac

Differentiated Education

We have chosen to allow girls and boys from the age of 8 to assert themselves and develop in separate spaces of freedom. Interests, maturity, and physical abilities differ as children and youth grow.

The method of the F.N.E. promotes the discovery of complementarity by bringing together girls and boys within the same movement in separate units. This respects and fosters the construction and identity of each individual according to their needs.

The Otters section (6-7 years old) is mixed, including the leadership team consisting of both fathers and mothers. From the age of 8, the girls sections and the boys sections operate separately while adhering to the same rules, goals, and promise. Occasionally, these sections come together for shared activities.

Adventure for every age range

The F.N.E.: An Association Open to the World

The F.N.E. is a member association of the International Union of Guides and Scouts of Europe (UIGSE). Established in 1956, the UIGSE promotes authentic brotherhood that transcends borders. In 2024, the UIGSE brings together 73.000 members in 27 countries.

During the World Youth Days in Toronto in 2002, the F.N.E. was approached by Italian scouts who were members of the UIGSE. Seeking solutions for accommodation and transportation, this marked the beginning of a fruitful relationship with other scouts from the UIGSE.

In 2005, the F.N.E. embarked on a pilgrimage to Rome, Italy, during Easter. It was during this time that an inaugural meeting with the UIGSE took place. In June 2007, a complete adoption of the UIGSE program was officially agreed upon.

In 2024, the F.N.E. has more than 2.500 members and 33 groups in Canada and the United States of America.