Scouts BSA

05/29/2026

🎙️ Conversation with the New National Chair

At the National Annual Meeting in Dallas, Ricky Mason assumed his role as Chair of the Scouting America National Executive Board. In a recent interview with *On Scouting*, he shared his thoughts on the future of Scouting America, membership growth, volunteer support, technology improvements, and the importance of delivering a great experience for every Scout and family.

Among the key themes discussed:

🔹 Making volunteering easier and more rewarding
🔹 Investing in technology and modern tools for families and leaders
🔹 Improving the first-year experience for new Scouts and parents
🔹 Strengthening membership growth through retention
🔹 Building stronger local support systems for units and volunteers

Mason also reflected on his own Scouting journey—from earning Eagle Scout and hiking at Philmont to the life lessons of resilience, leadership, and perseverance that continue to guide him today.

💬 “Scouting teaches youth how to succeed — but also how to fail and recover from failure. That's one of the most important lessons young people can learn.”

If you'd like to learn more about the priorities and vision for Scouting America over the next two years, take a few minutes to read the full interview.
https://onscouting.org/2026/05/20/qa-with-scouting-america-national-chair-ricky-mason/

05/26/2026

🧭 New “Trail Map” Shared for Membership Growth & Organizational Strength

Scouting America has released a new “Trail Map” outlining key priorities and challenges facing the movement as leaders work toward long-term growth and sustainability.

Among the major themes identified:

🔹 Volunteering is too hard
🔹 Technology is the #1 organizational weakness
🔹 Fees are pricing families out
🔹 Training needs a complete redesign
🔹 Trust and alignment are fractured across levels
🔹 School and community partnerships are the #1 growth lever
🔹 The first-year experience is make-or-break
🔹 Eliminate what does not serve the mission

The update also included several major technology milestones planned over the next two years:

💻 Technology Updates
📅 August 2026 — New BeAScout and registration system
📅 August 2026 — Unified member ID / eliminate duplicate member IDs
📅 September 2026 — New renewal system
📅 December 2026 — Simplify: eliminate lapse
📅 December 2026 — Simplify: align unit renewal
📅 March 2027 — New Scoutbook
📅 April 2027 — Align member renewal to February

Much more information is expected in the future, but these updates provide an early look at areas of focus for strengthening the Scouting program and improving the volunteer and family experience.

05/25/2026

🛻 Trailer & Gear Safety Matters

Heading to camp? Don’t forget that safe transportation includes more than just the driver.

Before every trip:
✔ Secure all gear inside and outside the vehicle
✔ Inspect trailers, hitches, tires, and lights
✔ Ensure towing drivers are trained and capable
✔ Complete a Pre-Trip Transportation Inspection
✔ Correct any deficiencies before departure

A few extra minutes of preparation can help prevent accidents and keep your unit focused on the adventure ahead.

📚 Review transportation guidance in the:
Guide to Safe Scouting
SAFE Checklist
Scouter Code of Conduct

👉 Safety resources:
https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/safety-moments/

05/24/2026

🧭 What Is a World Scout Jamboree?

Every four years, Scouts from around the world gather for one unforgettable international Scouting experience: the World Scout Jamboree.

From outdoor adventure and cultural exchange to leadership and lifelong friendships, the Jamboree brings together 45,000+ Scouts and leaders from more than 140 countries.

🌎 Recent host countries have included:
🇰🇷 South Korea
🇺🇸 United States
🇯🇵 Japan
🇸🇪 Sweden
🇬🇧 England

Next stop: 🇵🇱 Poland in 2027!

If you’ll be at least 14 and not yet 18 when the event begins, this may be your one chance to attend as a participant.

📅 July 30 – August 8, 2027

Learn more and apply:
🔗 https://t.email.scouting.org/r/?id=h40ea0bd5,16f2894f,16793af0

05/23/2026

🏕️ Need Help with Aquatics? You’re Not Alone

If your troop needs support for swim tests or aquatic programming:

✔ Reach out to your local council
✔ Ask about trained personnel or facilities
✔ Coordinate ahead of your event

Collaboration helps ensure a safe and successful experience for everyone.

🔗 Learn more:
https://www.scouting.org/program-updates/scouting-america-swim-tests-for-troops/

05/22/2026

💬 What We Wear Reflects Who We Are

Scouts are expected to make clothing choices that reflect respect for others.

🚫 Avoid clothing with:
• Offensive language or images
• Political messaging
• Violent or inappropriate content

✔ Choose clothing that supports a welcoming environment for all

Because a Scout is:
Helpful. Friendly. Courteous. Kind.
https://www.scouting.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Scouts-BSA-Cothing-Guidelines-2025-update.pdf

05/22/2026

📢 A New, Simpler Renewal Cycle for All Members

Scouting America announced an important change at last week’s National Annual Meeting that will simplify the membership and unit renewal process nationwide.

📅 By February 2028, all members and all units will have a single, common renewal month of February.

This change is in response to feedback from unit leaders and other Scouters who asked for a simpler, more consistent renewal experience. We appreciate and value their input.

🔑 Key updates include:

🔹 Beginning September 2026, all units due for renewal will renew to February 2028.

🔹 All memberships and unit charters will have a common renewal month of February by February 2028

➡️ To simplify the process and in response to unit leaders' requests, Scouting America is returning to unit control of member renewals. If the unit does not renew a member, that member may renew themselves after the unit-only period closes.

⚠️ The current 60-day grace period will end December 31, 2026

🔹 Members renewing in November 2026 will still receive a 30-day grace period through December

🔹 Members renewing in December 2026 must renew by December 31 to avoid being dropped

🛠️ To support the transition during 2026 and 2027:

🔹 Beginning in September 2026, new and renewing units will use the standard charter fee plus pro rata fees through February 2028

🔹 No changes for new and renewing members through 2026

📌 Unit leaders should watch for updates from their local council, as additional guidance and implementation details may vary by council during the transition period.

This is a significant operational change designed to reduce complexity and create a more streamlined experience for volunteers, families, and councils alike.

05/21/2026

Positions of Responsibility - Den Chief

Utilizing Den Chiefs is a great way to forge a connection with your local Cub Scout Packs. Den chiefs are Scouts who assist a Cub Scout den leader or Webelos den leader. They are selected by the senior patrol leader and Scoutmaster, and approved by the cubmaster and the pack committee for recommendation to the den leader. Den chiefs help Cub Scouts advance through Cub Scout ranks and encourage Cub Scouts to crossover to a troop when their time in Cub Scouts has ended.

Get more info here:
https://troopleader.scouting.org/general-troop-information/troop-structure/troop-positions/den-chief/

Den chiefs are Scouts who assist a Cub Scout den leader or Webelos den leader. They are selected by the senior patrol leader and Scoutmaster, and approved

05/20/2026

Liberty in Action: 250th Anniversary Challenge

Celebrate 250 Years of Freedom with Scouting America

America’s 250th anniversary is more than a milestone — it’s an opportunity to reflect, learn, create, explore, and serve. The Liberty in Action: America’s 250th Anniversary Challenge invites Scouts to connect the ideals of 1776 with the responsibilities of today. Through research, civic engagement, creative expression, historical exploration, and meaningful service, participants honor the past while shaping the future.

This challenge reminds us that liberty, equality, and the pursuit of happiness are not just words in a document — they are lived values strengthened through action. By completing these activities and contributing service through Impact365, Scouts help ensure that America’s founding principles continue to guide communities for generations to come.

Now is the moment to step forward. Reflect on our history. Celebrate the present. Serve for the future.

05/19/2026

🚗 Get There Safely

Every great Scouting adventure starts the same way: getting everyone there safely.

Transportation is one of the highest-risk parts of any Scouting activity, which is why Scouting America emphasizes a strong culture of safety and responsible driving practices.

A few important reminders:
✔ Drivers must be 18 or older and properly licensed
✔ Everyone must wear seatbelts
✔ Avoid distracted or impaired driving
✔ Follow Barriers to Abuse during transportation
✔ Drivers should never operate a vehicle while drowsy

Safety isn’t just about following rules—it’s about protecting every Scout and volunteer in our care.

📚 Resources:
SAFE Checklist
Guide to Safe Scouting
Scouter Code of Conduct

👉 Learn more through the Scouting Safely resources:
https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/safety-moments/

05/18/2026

✅ Yes—With Proper Training

Troops can conduct their own swim classification tests for troop activities and advancement—as long as:

✔ An adult has current Safe Swim Defense training
✔ Active supervision is provided
✔ Procedures follow the Aquatics Supervision manual

This gives units flexibility while maintaining safety standards.

🔗 Learn more:
https://www.scouting.org/program-updates/scouting-america-swim-tests-for-troops/