05/23/2026
Looking forward, not backwards with a focus on volunteers, technology that supports our mission and a program that is relevant to today’s families. Can’t wait - let’s GO!
Last week at the Scouting America National Annual Meeting in Dallas, Eagle Scout Ricky Mason officially began his term as Chair of the National Executive Board. In today's OnScouting, he outlines a bold vision for the future of Scouting focused on membership growth, volunteer support, retention, and modernization.
At the center of that vision is the new “Trail Map,” a strategic plan designed to strengthen Scouting by creating better experiences for both youth and volunteers.
Mason emphasized that volunteers remain the foundation of Scouting’s success. As families balance increasingly busy lives, Scouting America is focused on making volunteering easier, more rewarding, and better supported through improved tools, training, and local engagement.
He also highlighted the need for greater investment in technology and marketing to meet the expectations of today’s families and ensure Scouting remains accessible, responsive, and relevant for the next generation.
One of the most powerful parts of Mason’s message came from his own story. A Distinguished Eagle Scout and Silver Buffalo recipient, Mason credited Scouting with helping shape his resilience, leadership, and perseverance through some of life’s toughest challenges.
“Scouting taught me how to endure challenges, how to plan, and how to keep moving forward,” Mason shared.
Read the interview here:
https://onscouting.org/2026/05/20/qa-with-scouting-america-national-chair-ricky-mason/