Scouting Programs

The purpose of the Boy Scouts of America--incorporated on February 8, 1910, and chartered by Congress in 1916--is to provide an educational program for youth and young adults to build character, to train in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and to develop personal fitness.

Scouting is a game with a purpose, directed toward helping youth become happy, healthy, useful citizens.

Through recreation, Scouting achieves its purpose of helping young people develop physically, intellectually, socially, and spiritually. Scouting is all about building confidence and self-esteem, learning important life skills and leadership skills, team building, outdoor adventure, education, and fun! Scouts learn how to make good choices and to take responsibility for their actions so that they are prepared for their adult life as independent persons.

Chartered Organizations

Community-based organizations receive national charters to use the Scouting program as a part of their own youth work. These groups, which have goals compatible with those of the BSA, include religious, educational, civic, fraternal, business, and labor organizations; governmental bodies; corporations; professional associations; and citizens' groups

Volunteer Leaders

Volunteer adult leaders serve at all levels of Scouting in approximately 335 local councils, 30 areas, and 4 regions, and nationally with volunteer executive boards and committees providing guidance. Each autonomous local council is chartered by the BSA, which provides program and training aids along the guidelines established by the national Executive Board and the national charter from Congress.