Abilities Digest Winter 2025Abilities Digest has a new look! Here is the Winter 2025 issue, which includes:Abilities Digest·January 14, 2025
NFL Star Speaks From the Heart in Scouting America Promotional VideoAs a six-year veteran of the NFL, David Montgomery has recorded a lot of commercials, voice-overs and other promotional materials. This one, however, hit different. Learn how Scouting has made a lasting impact on the life of our official Scouting America ambassador.Scouting America Foundation·January 10, 2025
Winter Safety Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable SeasonAs winter approaches, it’s essential to be prepared for the unique challenges that come with colder weather. Here are some key tips to ensure you and your loved ones stay safe and warm this winter. Stay Warm with the C-O-L-D Method The Scouting America recommends the C-O-L-D method to stay warm during winter activities: CScouting Wire·January 9, 2025
Why Our Heavy-Duty Metal Bunk Bed Frames Are the Best Choice for Your Camp [SPONSORED CONTENT]As you prepare for the upcoming changes to the National Camp Standards set to take effect in 2025, we understand that keeping your camp environment safe and compliant is a top priority. The new regulations will require all upper bunks to have guardrails, designed to reduce the risks of injury and enhance the safety of campers. This is the perfect time to evaluate your camp’s bunk beds and ensure they meet the new standards, and we’re here to help!Trail to Adventure·January 7, 2025
Ensuring Trained Lifeguards in 2025: Navigating the Transition Beyond Scouting America Lifeguard ProgramThe announcement of the retirement of the Scouting America Lifeguard certification program, effective December 31, 2024, marks a significant shift in how Scouting America camps and councils approach lifeguard training. This change underscores the importance of proactive planning to ensure the continuation of high-quality lifeguard training and certification for summer camps and year-round aquatic programs. Trail to Adventure·January 6, 2025
Scouting for Clean Waterways, a nationwide initiative empowering Scouts to combat marine debrisIn celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Conservation Good Turn for America, Scouting America is introducing Scouting for Clean Waterways, a nationwide initiative aimed at addressing the critical issue of waterway and marine debris. This program, in partnership with Clean Hub and Goal Clean Seas Florida Keys, offers Scouts of all ages the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the health of our waterway ecosystems.Trail to Adventure·January 6, 2025
Keeping Cub Scouts Engaged: Spring Programming Ideas for Local CouncilsAs the weather warms and nature begins to bloom, spring offers a perfect opportunity for local councils to provide engaging outdoor programming that excites Cub Scouts and encourages participation. For camp leadership, crafting innovative spring activities can bridge the gap between winter hibernation and the summer season, ensuring Cub Scouts remain connected to the Scouting program while building anticipation for day camp or long-term camp.Trail to Adventure·January 6, 2025
Scouting America Unveils Updated Pre-Camp and Post-Camp Inspection FormScouting America is excited to announce the release of its newly updated Pre-Camp and Post-Camp Inspection Form, a comprehensive tool designed to enhance safety, sustainability, and organization during camping experiences. This updated form is now available for download here and serves as an essential resource for Scout leaders to ensure their campsites are both ready for use and properly restored after each visit.Trail to Adventure·January 6, 2025
Leave No Trace Winter Camping with Scout UnitsWinter camping with a Scout unit of 20 to 40 Scouts can be an incredible adventure. However, the potential for environmental impact increases significantly with larger groups, especially in fragile winter ecosystems. Practicing Leave No Trace (LNT) principles is essential to ensure the natural world remains undisturbed. Here are some tips to help you plan and execute a responsible winter camping trip:Trail to Adventure·January 6, 2025
Key Updates to the 2025 National Camp Accreditation Program (NCAP) StandardsAs of January 1, 2025, the updated National Camp Accreditation Program (NCAP) standards will be in effect. Councils must review these updates to ensure compliance and maintain safe, high-quality programs. The latest standards can be downloaded from the NCAP website at http://www.scouting.org/NCAP or directly via this link.Trail to Adventure·January 6, 2025
The Role of a Council Health Supervisor in Supporting Local Scout CouncilsThe Council Health Supervisor (CHS) is a pivotal figure within Scouting America, dedicated to safeguarding the health and safety of Scouts, leaders, and volunteers. While the position is often confused with the Camp Health Officer, this article shares the responsibilities, qualifications, and contributions of this essential role, shedding light on how the CHS ensures a safe and supportive environment for local councils.Trail to Adventure·January 6, 2025
International Summer Camp Staff for Local Council Long-term CampsFor those looking to add an exceptional program feature to their summer camp in 2025, take a look at the International Camp Staff Program (ICSP)! The aim of the program is to bring American scouts into contact with Scouts and Scouters from across the globe. Scouts can learn first-hand from international camp staffers about their nation’s Scouting program, their culture, and their customs. For many, this could be a Scout’s first chance to meet someone from another country, creating a summer camp experience they will remember forever.Trail to Adventure·January 6, 2025
Finding the Right Team: Best Practices in Recruiting Summer Camp StaffIt is no secret that we believe the success of your summer camp hinges on the quality of your staff. Enthusiastic, skilled, and dedicated camp staff can turn a good program into an unforgettable adventure for Scouts. But how can your council find the right candidates? Let’s talk about some strategies for effectively recruiting summer camp staff, highlight top job sites like Jobs.ScoutLife.org, and share tips for crafting compelling job postings. Trail to Adventure·January 6, 2025
New Social Media AccountsBe sure to check out our updated social media links!Scouting Alumni·January 5, 2025
We are Scouting Alumni!We have news to Share! Like all of you, we are excited about our new corporate brand, Scouting America. It reflects who we are today, the youth we serve, and excitement for our future. As part of the official launch of the Scouting America brand on February 8, 2025, the 115th anniversary of Scouting in […]Scouting Alumni·January 3, 2025
2024 Eagle Scout Project of the Year: He Built 150 Artificial Reefs to Clean Water, Attract Sea LifeInspired by a disappointing fishing trip with his father, Jeb, Eagle Scout John Shell didn't just solve a problem; he sparked a movement. His ambitious project installing 150 artificial reefs is now a catalyst for attracting vibrant sea life, improving water quality by an estimated 10 million gallons annually, and boosting recreational fishing. This impactful effort, now championed by a local non-profit and university aiming for 1,000 more reefs, demonstrates the profound difference strategic, community-backed projects can make in environmental and economic well-being.Scouting America Foundation·January 3, 2025
Jimmy Carter Was a Scout Leader & Silver Buffalo Winner Known for Telling Great Stories Around the CampfireBefore serving as the 39th president of the United States, before serving as the 76th governor of Georgia, Jimmy Carter served in a smaller but just as vital role: his children’s Scout leader. Carter, who died Sunday at the age of 100, served in a variety of adult leader roles beginning in 1951 for what was then known as the Chehaw Council.Scouting America Foundation·December 30, 2024
Jimmy Carter, Scouting Alumnus, Former U.S. President, and Nobel Peace Prize Recipient Passes Away at 100"Aaron on Scouting" highlights the strong connection former U.S. President Jimmy Carter had with Scouting.Scouting Alumni·December 30, 2024
Meet Your 2024 DESA ClassMeet the 2024 Class of Distinguished Eagle Scouts. Honoring Eagle Scouts for extraordinary success and exceptional community service, this year’s class features 18 inspiring individuals.National Eagle Scout Association·December 19, 2024
Scouting America Receives $30 Million Grant from Lilly Endowment to Build Character in the Nation’s Young PeopleScouting America, the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training, has been awarded a grant of $30 million from Lilly Endowment Inc. to help build the character of the nation’s young people.Scouting America Foundation·December 19, 2024