Welcome!

This blog was created to help you apply educational principles to your scholar group or family. 

What is Vanguard?

It all started with a dream...

The first "Vanguard Group" was created by Mary Biesinger. She wanted a group for her children in which they would:

1.  Be encouraged to have faith in God as the their ultimate mentor and source of truth through the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ 
2. Discover and understand the value of their own unique mission, introduce various communication styles, and encourage gaining the skills, talents and gifts necessary so that they may communicate that mission to the world
3. Bring them face-to-face with greatness as they study the Creator, His world and people to prepare them to become future leaders in society. * Leader = Someone qualified through discipleship, to lead others in the home, community, and world
4. Create an environment of love, respect, decency, trust, and confidence 
5. Practice and exemplify service-oriented leadership
6. Learn the language of liberty to protect their freedom to pursue their God-given missions to their fullest. 

The name...

She called it "Vanguard" because, in her words:

 "As I mentally envisioned the youth group I dreamed for my children, I saw them leading the way in their lives, much like the Vanguard force of an army. The Vanguard is an elite group in a military force, 'moving at the head of an army'. It is also 'the forefront of an action or movement' . In order to do this, I felt that they needed principles of freedom to base their education upon. I see the youth as the 'Vanguard' of an army dedicated to the preservation of freedom in their lives, their homes, and our world. I see them pursuing their unique missions, using their God-given genius that they have had the liberty and encouragement to develop in Vanguard with loving and supportive parents, mentors, and peers."

The growth...

The success in accomplishing the mission of her group has encouraged many to share her vision, start similar groups, and continue to look for true educational principles that would keep blessing the lives of the noble youth and families in their community.


Successful Principles 

The educational principles we have found in creating these groups are not meant to be an exhaustive list. We hope to keep sharing with one another the truths we find as we lead and mentor in varied capacities. These principles are those in which we have found great success as we have applied them to our different groups. Our desire is that they will bless your lives as you seek to apply them in the way that will best serve the needs of your community.

 Principle Key Words (read about each one on the side bar):
1. Measuring Stick 
2. Family-Centered and Individualized
3. Mentoring in Truth
4. Applying Principles
5. Environment
6. Preparation and Effort
7. Desire and Choice
8. Exposure and Variety
9. Gifts and Talents
10. Stewardships and Expectations
11. Language of Liberty


  
Caution about Application 

 Each principle discussed will have some examples of how they have been applied in the past. We wish for none of the applications shown or described to be seen as a "How to" list for leading a group. They are meant to paint a possible picture so that you may be inspired as to what the picture might look like for your unique group. We caution you not to copy another group's application without thoroughly understanding the principle behind it. This will free you to change the methods that are not working for your youth without sacrificing the true principles that will make your group succeed.
* This blog is a work in progress. We also hope to have videos of focus groups posted soon for those who would like a visual picture of an application.

Search the Doctrine 

Throughout this blog, scriptures are referenced to help you look for doctrine (the why) behind the principles (the what). Bible scriptures are included which each principle as well as scripture from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Some are in the Doctrine and Covenants, Abraham is in The Pearl of Great Price and all others are in The Book of Mormon

Remember, God is the ultimate source of truth and as you search his word, He will direct your path in how you can best apply the truths you are learning. The most important thing you can do as you prepare to start a group is to read those scriptures and take notes of ideas that come to your mind as you search and ponder.

Congratulations!

 
Congratulations for being on this great educational journey! My family and I have been immensely blessed by the truths shared on this blog. It is an exciting adventure. We are thrilled that so many are seeking the same things we are as we share the inspiring ride!