Meditations on Moving Scouting Forward

Is it time we move past the Girl and Boy Scouts?  For scouting to remain relevant, it needs to adapt to the 21^st Century.  This means one organization, inclusive regardless of Gender, Race, Sexuality, or Disability.  By nature, Scouting is a spiritual organization; therefore one is required to be a person of faith.

Levels and Paths to Advance through Scouting

Within Scouting, there would be three levels, Pre-Scouts, Junior Scouts, and Senior Scouts.  Pre- and Junior Scouts would be all inclusive of any interest, and Senior Scouts would be divided into different three (or more) paths.  These paths would be based generally on interest; however there would be no restriction on someone from one path pursuing activities in another path (this might even be encouraged).

The paths would be Mariner Scouts, Venture Scouts, and Civic Scouts.  Ranks and most requirements would generally be unique to that path; however badges and honors would be common across all paths.  Some requirements would apply to all paths (specific badges and service projects), and the ultimate rank of Eagle Scout would remain as the highest honor in all of scouting.

The path you follow is dependent upon your interests as well as the availability of troops within that chosen path (sorry, no Mariner Scouts in Kansas).  Transferring Paths would also be permitted, with the only downside that upon transferring, the Scout would begin at the bottom of that path.

The Importance of Camping in Scouting Life

Camp is an important part of Scouting.  It provides an opportunity for the scout to be among other scouts and form relationships beyond their own troop. 

The week long summer camps are especially important in Scouting as this is where much of the fellowship and learning occurs.  Every four years would be the National Scouting Jamboree, the hallmark of scouting activities.  High Adventure Camps would also be inclusive of all paths. 

Each path would also retain their unique and special activities.  These activities occur at the Council, Regional, State, and National Level and are also unique across different geographies. 

Honor Societies – Above and Beyond

Another key to scouting is the use of Honor Societies.  Separate from Paths, these societies have their own requirements to join and offer opportunities for the scout to challenge themselves and reach their fullest potential.  Election to the honor society could be by merit, one’s peers, or members of the society, among others possibilities.