Hazardous Weather Training Updates & FAQIn 2017, Hazardous Weather Training was made mandatory for all Direct Contact Leaders, however completion of this training has not been properly reflected in training reports. Effective the week of December 2, 2024 this training will be reflected in training reports. Please see the attached file for more information. Download the Hazardous Weather Training Frequently […]Scouts BSA Program Updates·December 19, 2024
Updates to the Guide to AdvancementThe Guide to Advancement has been updated and can be found https://www.scouting.org/programs/scouts-bsa/advancement-and-awards/resources/The majority of these changes were clarifications to reduce confusion and were based on feedback from the field. Significant changes may be found in Section 1.0.3.0. These changes will become effective on January 1, 2025. For questions or concerns please email advancement.team@scouting.org Scouts BSA Program Updates·December 19, 2024
Scouting Alum, Kenneth Cooper, Reflects on His Career and Time in Scouting"Aaron on Scouting" describes how Dr. Kenneth Cooper, a Notable Scouting Alumni and Distinguished Eagle Scout, pioneered aerobics and changed the world's view on exercise, emphasizing its importance for a healthy lifestyle.Scouting Alumni·December 16, 2024
With application season upon us, we caught up with one of the original NESA scholarship recipientsTo mark the 40th anniversary of NESA scholarships, my friends in the official alumni association for Eagle Scouts helped me track down one of the original recipients from 1984.National Eagle Scout Association·December 12, 2024
Merit Badge Updates for 2025Scouts BSA is excited to share the planned updates to Merit Badges that will take effect on January 1, 2025. These updates will be reflected in Scoutbook and on our online Merit Badge Hub (https://www.scouting.org/skills/merit-badges/) towards the end of December. These preliminary updates are subject to change before final implementation on January 1, 2025. Per […]Scouts BSA Program Updates·December 10, 2024
Alum Bill Litton Helps His Community Be PreparedBill Litton, a Scouting America alum and Emergency Management Director, has used his Scouting roots to lead disaster response efforts, including Hurricane Irma and the PULSE shooting, helping communities recover with resilience and expertise.Scouting Alumni·December 3, 2024
Legal Eagles Give BackLegal Eagles, founded by Eagle Scout Smitty Harrison in South Carolina, connects Eagle Scout attorneys with aspiring law students, fostering mentorship, leadership, and service. Their impactful programs, like "Law Merit Badge Day," inspire Scouts to explore legal careers while embodying Scouting’s values.Scouting Alumni·December 3, 2024
Scouter Helps Feed a CampusScouts from six units in the Hornet’s Nest District joined UNC Charlotte alumni to collect 1,001 pounds of donations for the Jamil Niner Student Pantry, supporting students facing food insecurity.Scouting Alumni·December 3, 2024
Thanksgiving ReflectionsAndrew Miller, Scouting America Alumni Association Chair, wishes alumni a Happy Thanksgiving, expressing gratitude for the nation's ideals, community service, and Scouting's positive impact. Thanks to alumni for embodying Scouting values and contributing to communities.Scouting Alumni·November 28, 2024
Philmont SND Activities 2025The Philmont Scout Ranch offers three SND-related activities next summer: Philmont is located in the rugged wilderness of the Sangre de Cristo range of the Rocky Mountains in northeastern New Mexico. The conference and the family experience are based in the Philmont Training Center, which provides a comfortable tent camping experience and a dining hall […]Abilities Digest·November 25, 2024
Key Steps for Membership and Unit RenewalEarlier this year Scouting America launched a new membership renewal process separate from the Unit Charter renewal. This new process syncs with each member’s annual enrollment date. Members (youth & adult) join Scouting year-round, and their membership fees are tied to the month of their enrollment. For most members, this is the same month as […]Scouts BSA Program Updates·November 20, 2024
November 2024 Coast Guard Tech TalkLessons on Leadership Please join us for our November 2024 Coast Guard Tech Talk on 26 Nov 2024 at 9pmET/8pmCT/7pmMT/6pmPT on the Zoom Webinar link below: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84631405714 Commodore Dale E. Fajardo will speak to Lessons on Leadership. Commodore Fajardo joined the Auxiliary in 2010. He has been elected to be a Flotilla Commander four times, a Division Vice Commander twice, […]Sea Scouts News·November 20, 2024
SND Roundtable 5 DecemberOur quarterly Special Needs and Disabilities (SND) Roundtable takes place at 6pm Central Time on Thursday 5 December 2024. Register by clicking the button below:Abilities Digest·November 19, 2024
Has Your Council Developed a Continuous Camp Improvement Plan? Running a successful camp requires more than just creating memorable activities; it involves a constant commitment to improvement and safety. This is where a Continuous Camp Improvement Plan (CCIP) proves invaluable. As outlined in the CCIP Guide, a CCIP is integral to meeting standards set by the National Camp Accreditation Program (NCAP) and is part of the 5-year authorization process for camps. Let’s explore how a CCIP can support your council’s goals in camper experience, staff development, operational efficiency, and environmental stewardship, with specific reference to the guide’s insights and NCAP standards. Trail to Adventure·November 19, 2024
Ignite Your Camp’s Future with 2025 National Camping School – Registration Open Now! Ready to enhance your camp programs? The 2025 National Camping School (NCS) is now accepting registrations for all Long-term (Resident) Camp and Day Camp sessions! This is your chance to equip your team with top-tier training for an unforgettable camp season. Visit www.scouting.org/ncs to view dates, locations, and course fees. Trail to Adventure·November 19, 2024
Winter Engagement: How to Keep Your Camp Staff Connected and Excited to Return The off-season is often viewed as a quiet time for Scout camps, but it’s actually one of the most critical periods for engaging with your camp staff. Winter months may separate your team from camp, but that doesn’t mean the bond needs to fade. In fact, this is the perfect time to nurture connections, keep excitement high, and encourage your camp staff to return for another summer. Effective winter engagement not only strengthens the camp community but also ensures that you retain experienced, passionate staff for the upcoming season. Trail to Adventure·November 19, 2024
Winter Adventures for Cub Scouts: Hands-On Fun for Every Rank Winter is a magical season that provides unique opportunities for Cub Scouts to explore the outdoors, learn new skills, and earn adventures in a safe, exciting environment. Many Cub Scout ranks include adventures that can be completed in cold-weather settings, allowing Scouts to stay active, learn resilience, and foster teamwork. For example: Trail to Adventure·November 19, 2024
Mark Your Calendar for the 2025 National Outdoor ConferenceJoin us in the heart of the rugged Southwest at Philmont for the 2025 National Outdoor Conference—the ultimate gathering for Scouters and outdoor enthusiasts! Whether you’re looking to level up your skills, get inspired by top speakers, or simply connect with like-minded adventurers, this biennial event is the place to be. Trail to Adventure·November 19, 2024
Winter Snow Removal SafetyWinter is here and our driveways, sidewalks, and council properties are going to get covered in snow. Removal is a dreaded chore that needs to be planned out ahead of time. Snow shoveling can be a very dangerous task if not handled correctly. Trail to Adventure·November 19, 2024
Preventing Slip and Fall Accidents During Winter Months: A Guide for Council Property SupervisorsAs winter approaches, council properties face the heightened risk of slip and fall accidents due to snow and ice accumulation. These incidents can lead to severe injuries, legal liabilities, and increased insurance costs. Therefore, it is essential to implement effective strategies to prevent accidents on your council’s properties during the colder months. Here are some practical measures that can help ensure safety. Trail to Adventure·November 19, 2024