Three Fires Council - Troop 51, Lombard, IL

06/10/2026

📊 New Eagle Scout Study Released

Scouting America has released a major new research study:
“Eagle Scouts: A Legacy of Values-Based Leadership and Service.”

Conducted by The Harris Poll, the study examined the long-term impact of Scouting and the Eagle Scout experience on leadership, service, character, well-being, and civic engagement.

Among the findings:
⭐ 99% of Eagle Scouts say Scouting had a positive influence on their lives
⭐ Eagle Scouts report higher levels of leadership, purpose, gratitude, and community involvement
⭐ Non-Scouts overwhelmingly recognize the positive impact Scouting has on youth and society

The study also found Eagle Scouts are more likely to:
✔ Volunteer and lead in their communities
✔ Value honesty, responsibility, and service
✔ Maintain strong family and community relationships
✔ Spend time outdoors and practice environmental stewardship
✔ Live by the values found in the Scout Oath and Law

🌎 This research highlights the lasting impact Scouting can have on young people, families, and communities.

🔗 Explore the interactive study website:
https://www.scouting.org/about/research/eagle-scout-2026/

📘 Download the printable study booklet:
https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/marketing/pdf/Eagle%20Scout%20Study%202026.pdf

06/07/2026

Earning the Eagle Scout rank was never just about the badge — it was about the lessons, the leadership, the service, and the growth that shaped who I am today. 🦅
Now, the National Eagle Scout Association is helping us bring that legacy into the digital world. With NESA Digital Badging, Eagle Scouts can proudly display their accomplishments on LinkedIn, email signatures, resumes, and more.

It’s a powerful way to share the values we live by: leadership, service, citizenship, and continuous learning.
If you’re an Eagle, elevate your professional presence and show your Eagle pride.

Learn more: nesa.org/resources/digital-badges/

06/01/2026

Thank you to all of the parents who volunteered their time for our Troop over the years!

05/20/2026

🦅 Does becoming an Eagle Scout truly set you apart? A new study by The Harris Poll surveyed thousands of adults to see how Eagle Scouts compare to those who were never in Scouting.

The study: “𝘌𝘢𝘨𝘭𝘦 𝘚𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘴: 𝘈 𝘓𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘤𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘝𝘢𝘭𝘶𝘦𝘴-𝘉𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘓𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘤𝘦,” shows that Eagle Scouts possess lifelong strengths and a value-based foundation that genuinely sets them apart from their peers.

Dive into the data yourself and see the incredible impact of this research through a new interactive website at scouting.org/about/research/eagle-scout-2026/

04/18/2026

04/16/2026

Honor your Scout, your family, or your Scouting journey with a personalized Legacy Brick—permanently placed at Camp Big Timber for generations to see. Be part of the legacy. One brick at a time.

Email [email protected] or go to https://fundraise.givesmart.com/e/JVsjqg?vid=1lumxk.

03/16/2026

Follow the Scouts on Instagram!

03/01/2026

Congratulations to our newest Eagle Scout, Leo!! 🎉

02/14/2026

📣 80 Merit Badges Updated for 2026

Scouting America has refreshed 80 merit badges for 2026—some received minor tuneups, while others were fully overhauled to reflect today’s technology, safety practices, and learning needs.

The goal? To modernize and strengthen the merit badge program so it remains relevant, meaningful, and accessible to Scouts.

🔎 Key Updates Now in Effect (as of January 1)

Careers & Hobbies Expanded
Many badges now include both career and hobby exploration options, giving Scouts flexibility to connect their interests to future opportunities.

Personal Fitness Overhaul
• Physical exam requirement removed (Scouts discuss the importance instead)
• Requirements accessible to Scouts with disabilities
• Nutrition language updated for sensitivity
• 12-week program clarified as consecutive (with flexibility for extenuating circumstances)

Modern Technology Added
• Radio now includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 5G and RFID
• Model Design and Building includes digital design and 3D printing
• Weather adds checking forecast sources before activities

Safety Enhancements
• Public safety and “If You See Something, Say Something” added
• Travel safety and online safety updated
• Leave No Trace integrated into additional outdoor badges

Other Significant Updates
• Chess expanded to include openings and tournaments
• Search and Rescue clarifies staying put and signaling
• Traffic Safety addresses distracted driving and blind spots
• Wilderness Survival emphasizes planning and decision-making

These updates help ensure Scouts continue developing real-world skills while upholding the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

🔗 Learn more and explore merit badge resources here:
https://www.scouting.org/skills/merit-badges/

02/08/2026

Ice fishing, hockey, football, golf, and cub scouts at Bullfrog Lake