What does BSOA mean in SCOUTING

The mission of the Boy Scouts of America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.

Prospective members must be between 11 and 17 years old, or 10 years old if they have completed the fifth grade. Additionally, they should subscribe to the values outlined in the Scout Oath and Law.

Scouts participate in a wide variety of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, canoeing, rock climbing, rappelling, orienteering, first-aid projects and service projects.

All prospective leaders must complete an application process that includes a background check and completion of Youth Protection training. Leaders must also have expertise or training related to outdoor activities and skills instruction or scoutcraft knowledge.

Yes! Adults aged 18 - 20 can join as young adult members through their local council’s Venturing program. Adults age 21+ can volunteer as registered adult volunteers by participating in roles such as mentor or instructor/trainer roles within their local council.

The Greater Muscogee Council has several programs available to families needing assistance with registration fees. These include Outdoor Programs (camping scholarships) and Operation First Class (scholarships for new Eagle Scouts). Families should contact their local Council Service Center for more information on eligibility criteria for these programs.

Yes! Scouts have many opportunities to earn recognition. They can earn rank advancement badges by completing Merit Badges which are awarded when they demonstrate mastery certain skill sets; special awards are given out for service hours; high-level performance is recognized by earning medals and honors; those showing exemplary leadership may receive special commendations; outstanding performance may result in being named an Eagle Scout –the highest youth scouting award attainable– among other awards offered through different special events and experiences hosted by BSA.

BSA offers youth members educational content on topics related to its mission -including career exploration resources- through its Learning For Life pilot program which provides youth with access to innovative learning activities that promote skill development outside the traditional classroom setting such as exploring careers or community service opportunities and stem challenges from scientific inquiry activities & experiments.