Scouting is a youth-led, youth-run program, but the youth must be trained to be leaders. Adult role models in Scouting provide an ideal learning experience for all youth. Every adult volunteer has something valuable to offer. On a typical weekend campout, Scouts might work with an adult volunteer who teaches the Fishing merit badge and with a Scout mom to learn orienteering, go on a 5-mile hike with another adult leader, and end the day learning how to clean and cook fresh fish from someone else.

The advantages of Scouting are not limited to youth. Adults also develop leadership and physical skills with every training experience.

Volunteers learn, too. Volunteers spend a significant amount of time to ensure the success of Scouting in their communities. The average Scout volunteer gives 20 hours of service each month, and 96 percent of volunteers say they would recommend volunteering for the BSA to other adults. In fact, volunteers believe their time invested with the Boy Scouts of America helps them be:

A better citizen
A better parent
A better manager
A better employee
More patient and tolerant of others
More open to new ideas and opinions

We need you to provide the direction, coaching, and training that empowers today’s youth with the skills they will need to lead tomorrow.

How You Can Help

There are many ways that you can help Scouting in your area. Whether you are volunteering directly with Scouts or helping out behind the scenes, you can make an impact on the lives of Scouts by volunteering your time.

How can you help? Here are a few ideas:

Assisting directly with the Scouts on an ongoing basis

Leader (Cubmaster, Den leader, Scoutmaster, Venturing crew Advisor)
Assistant leader
Board of review coordinator/member
Court of honor coordinator/member

Helping directly with the Scouts in specific events or activities

Event coordinator/event committee member
Pinewood derby coordinator/committee member
Service project coordinator/committee member
Camping trip participant
Banquet coordinator/committee member
Day camp coordinator/participant
Summer camp coordinator/participant/promotion
Merit badge counselor

Support: Administrative Role

Advancement committee chair/member
Communications committee chair/committee member (Webmaster, PR, newsletter)
Secretary: recordkeeping, activity permits, meeting minutes, annual recharter activities
Treasurer/assistant treasurer
Youth Protection training coordinator
Life to Eagle coordinator
Merit badge coordinator

Support: Other