NESA- Mid-Iowa Chapter

09/14/2026

$$$🤑$$$

SCOUT LEADERS: ARE YOU PAYING FULL PRICE FOR OUTDOOR GEAR?

You might not have to!

Scouting America recently highlighted something many volunteers and camp staff don't know about: outdoor-industry discounts and “pro deals.”

Depending on the program and your eligibility, discounts can range from 30–70% off outdoor gear and apparel. And some programs are available to registered Scouting volunteers, not just paid outdoor professionals or camp staff.

Some opportunities highlighted include:
ALPS Mountaineering / Hiker Direct — special access for registered Scouting volunteers.
Coleman — discounted camping gear opportunities.
Bass Pro Shops & Dick’s Sporting Goods — Scouting-related in-store discounts are listed; check current store requirements.
L.L.Bean — unit purchasing opportunities for gear that remains unit property.
Scouting Alumni Association — membership includes access to several discounts and benefits.
Scout Shop Clearance — worth checking before paying full price for gear.
Camp staff and qualifying outdoor professionals may have even more options, including programs through ExpertVoice, Outdoor Prolink and individual outdoor brands.

Those programs can include discounts on gear from brands such as Osprey, NEMO, Smartwool, Salomon, Black Diamond, Big Agnes, Hydro Flask and others.

A couple of important reminders:

Eligibility and discounts vary by company and can change, so always check the current terms before purchasing. Camp staff may also need documentation such as a staff ID, employment letter or pay stub.

Before your next camping or backpacking purchase, it may be worth spending a few minutes checking whether a Scouting discount is available.

Because there's no merit badge for paying retail!

Check out Scouting America's Guide to Pro Deals for Volunteers and Camp Staff for the full list and details.
https://www.scouting.org/trail-to-adventure-blog/the-guide-to-pro-deals-for-volunteers-and-camp-staff/

09/11/2026

Remembering former Boston College lacrosse player Welles Crowther, who led people to safety after terrorists struck the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001 on Watch ESPN, first streamed on Wednesday, September 11, 2024.

09/11/2026

For 25 years, Scouts have continued to honor September 11 through remembrance and service. Helping other people isn’t just something Scouts do. It’s part of who we are.

On the eve of 9/11, we challenge all - past and present - to serve in honor of the fallen heroes: https://ow.ly/Qs2v50ZMpBu.

09/04/2026

Youth Lead Program and Leadership Development FTW!!!

First-Ever Scouts BSA SPL Summit — October 25!
Scouts BSA is launching the first-ever Senior Patrol Leader Summit, giving youth leaders from troops across the country a direct opportunity to connect, share ideas, and help shape the future of Scouts BSA.

October 25, 2026
Zoom
7:00–7:30 PM local time

Four identical sessions will be offered at 7:00 PM Eastern, Central, Mountain, and Pacific, and Scouts may attend whichever session works best for their schedule.

Each troop is invited to have its Senior Patrol Leader—or another designated Scout—participate.

During the Summit, Scouts will have an opportunity to:
• Share what’s working—and what could be better—in their troop experience
• Exchange ideas with Scouts from across the country
• Hear about upcoming Scouts BSA programs and opportunities
• Provide feedback directly to national Scouts BSA leadership

Scouting happens locally, and the troop experience should help shape the program nationally.

Scoutmasters: watch your email. Registration information will be sent to Scoutmasters approximately one month before the Summit to share with their SPL or designated youth participant.

Encourage your SPL to take advantage of this new opportunity to make their voice heard!

08/31/2026

A great opportunity to rekindle your scouting experience by providing mentorship to out scout units and leaders. Become a Commissioner!

Interested in becoming a Scouting Unit Commissioner? 🌟
Join us for the Council Commissioner Kaleidoscope a day of learning, connection, and fun.
📅 November 21st
🕗 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
📍 Mitigwa Scout Reservation Bear Creek Lodge
Learn more and register at https://scoutingevent.com/177-Kaleidoscope
What to expect
• What is a Unit Commissioner
• Commissioner updates
• Fellowship and networking
• New tools and resources
• Lunch provided 🍽️
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and grow as a Scouting leader.

08/27/2026

Scouting doesn’t just shape moments, it shapes lives.

According to a national study conducted by The Harris Poll, 99% of Eagle Scouts report a positive, lasting impact and the results speak for themselves. 🌟
• 95% say Scouting shaped their personal values
• 95% say they’re happy with who they are today
• Eagle Scouts are more likely to lead and serve in their communities

Read more:
https://www.scouting.org/about/research/eagle-scout-2026/

Ready to get your child involved? Start here: https://beascout.org

Give back and support Scouting by donating today at: https://donations.scouting.org/council/177/appeal/441

08/08/2026

Find the links to your new districts in the comments!

We Now have NEW District Pages! See Comments and Follow your New District TODAY! **PLEASE CLICK THE 'ALL COMMENTS' BUTTON BELOW TO SEE THEM ALL**

07/31/2026

What a great way for our Alumni to get back involved with Scouting!

Interested in becoming a Scouting Unit Commissioner? 🌟

Join us for the Council Commissioner Kaleidoscope a day of learning, connection, and fun.

📅 November 21st
🕗 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
📍 Mitigwa Scout Reservation Bear Creek Lodge

Learn more and register at https://scoutingevent.com/177-Kaleidoscope

What to expect
• What is a Unit Commissioner
• Commissioner updates
• Fellowship and networking
• New tools and resources
• Lunch provided 🍽️

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and grow as a Scouting leader.

07/28/2026

06/09/2026

For all of the Future Eagle out there!