If you’ve ever been a Scout, known a Scout, or raised a Scout, you know that the Scouting America (BSA) is far more than just a youth organization; it’s a movement that shapes the future leaders of our nation. With a mission to prepare young people to make intelligent, practical, and ethical choices, the BSA and its many high-quality youth programs play a key role in molding character, fostering community engagement, and promoting lifelong learning. 

As is the case for many other nonprofit organizations, fundraisers for Scout units, along with those for the organization as a whole, are the lifeblood of the BSA. When they are successful, these events allow the BSA to sustain and expand their transformative programs. The money raised enables the organization to provide scholarships, maintain facilities, develop new merit badges, and reach underserved communities. 

By supporting BSA fundraisers, individuals and businesses are not just contributing financially; they are investing in the development of future leaders, environmental stewards, and responsible citizens. In essence, fundraisers are a vital bridge connecting the aspirations of the Boy Scouts with the resources needed to turn those dreams into reality, ensuring that the positive impact of scouting continues to resonate across generations.

Here are some of the many benefits of Boy Scouts membership and involvement — and, by extension, the reasons to support BSA special events now.

Building Character

The BSA helps children to develop a strong moral compass and sense of personal responsibility in the following ways:

• Leadership development: The BSA’s programs are designed to instill leadership qualities in young individuals. Through various activities, Scouts learn to take responsibility, make decisions, and lead their peers.
• Ethical foundation: The Scout Oath and Law serve as a moral compass, guiding Scouts to be trustworthy, loyal, helpful, and more. These principles lay the groundwork for ethical behavior throughout life.
• Personal growth: Scouts are encouraged to set and achieve personal goals. Whether it’s earning a merit badge or advancing to a higher rank, the journey fosters self-confidence and determination.

Community Engagement

The BSA also teaches young people to care about and serve their communities through the following:

• Service projects: Community service is at the heart of Scouting. Scouts are actively involved in various service projects, ranging from neighborhood clean-ups to building shelters for the homeless.
• Civic responsibility: The BSA encourages Scouts to be active citizens, understanding their role in community governance and the importance of voting, public service, and civic duty.

• Cultural awareness: Through exposure to different cultures and traditions, Scouts learn to respect and appreciate diversity, fostering a more inclusive and empathetic society.

Lifelong Learning

Scouts learn to constantly work toward new practical, academic, and career goals through the BSA’s commitment to:

• Outdoor skills: From camping to survival techniques, the BSA teaches valuable outdoor skill sets that promote not only physical fitness, but also a deep appreciation for nature and environmental stewardship.
• Additional skill development: The BSA offers over 135 merit badges, each focusing on a different skill or subject area. From robotics to cooking, Scouts have the opportunity to explore various fields and discover their passions.
• Educational partnerships: Collaborating with educational institutions and industry experts, the BSA provides Scouts with unique learning experiences that complement their academic education.
• Career exploration: Many Scouts have found their career paths through Scouting, as the program allows them to explore different professions and connect with mentors in various fields.

Supporting Boy Scouts Fundraisers

Here’s what you’re accomplishing when you participate in a Scouting fundraiser:

• Investing in the future: By attending and contributing to Boy Scouts fundraisers, you are investing in the future of our youth and, by extension, our society.
• Enhancing programs: Fundraisers support the development and enhancement of Scouting programs, ensuring that more young people have access to these valuable life lessons.
• Building community: Participating in fundraisers fosters a sense of community, bringing together like-minded individuals who believe in the mission of the BSA.
• Contributing to corporate social responsibility: Businesses can align with the values of the BSA by sponsoring events and contributing to fundraisers, demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility.

Attend the Harry E. Mangle Memorial Dinner

If you live in the western parts of Pennsylvania, Maryland, or West Virginia, enrolling your child in the Scouting America Laurel Highlands Council is an excellent way for them to benefit from countless programs and experiences that will mold them into capable, kind, and community-oriented people.

Join us as we celebrate the Harry E. Mangle Memorial Dinner on October 26, 2023, at the Pasquerilla Conference Center in Johnstown. Register here to attend or donate and help us continue our mission to serve youth from all communities, regardless of circumstances.  

Scouting’s programs and outdoor adventures give young people the opportunity to try new things, provide service to others, build self-confidence, and develop leadership skills. The Scouting America Laurel Highlands Council serves youth members and volunteer adult leaders throughout Western Pennsylvania, Western Maryland, and parts of West Virginia. We aim to beneficially involve every eligible child and their family in the fun and adventure of our programs. 

So what are you waiting for? Join now!