As the holiday season approaches, many of us look for meaningful ways to give back to our communities. One fantastic opportunity is Giving Tuesday. This year, consider supporting Scouting America (formerly the Boy Scouts of America) to invest in high-quality youth development programs and the success of future generations.

What Is Giving Tuesday?

Giving Tuesday is an annual event that falls on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, encouraging individuals and organizations to contribute to charitable causes rather than focusing exclusively on shopping retail sales. It’s a day that promotes the true spirit of giving and reflects the values of generosity that are so important during the holiday season. Many Scouting councils, such as the Laurel Highlands Council, participate in Giving Tuesday each year.

When Is Giving Tuesday?

In 2024, Giving Tuesday will be observed on December 3. This day follows Black Friday and Cyber Monday, providing a perfect opportunity to shift focus from shopping to supporting those in need.

Why Donate to Scouting America?

Supporting the time-honored national youth development organization now called Scouting America means investing in the future of our youth. Here are several compelling reasons to consider making a donation:

• Character development. Scouting programs emphasize values like integrity, responsibility, and teamwork. Through hands-on experiences, Scouts learn essential ethics-related skills that help shape their character in positive, productive ways.
• Community engagement. Scouting fosters a sense of community by encouraging participants to engage in service projects. Scouts are often involved in local initiatives, from community cleanups to food drives, teaching them the importance of giving back.
• Leadership skills. Scouts have numerous opportunities to take on leadership roles, helping them develop critical skills that will serve them throughout their lives. This includes planning events, leading teams, and navigating challenges.
• Outdoor skills. Kids enrolled in Scouting learn how to hike, camp, boat, and much more in nature. They also participate in wilderness survival and first aid training. Finally, Scouts learn to respect nature and become good stewards of our natural resources.
• Life skills. Scouting programs train kids in an impressive array of useful skills that will serve them well throughout their lives. These include many practical skills, such as key safety measures for various activities, but also invaluable “soft” skills, such as working with others as a team and managing time effectively.
• STEM training. Many Scouting councils provide chances for kids to engage in hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) learning outside of school. This allows kids to learn in new ways and discover how STEM concepts apply to the real world and their own lives.
• Early exposure to career pathways. Scouting offers many opportunities for kids to engage in special career-related summer camps and other activities that can help them to start thinking about professions they may be interested in pursuing one day.
• Inclusive programs. Scouting America strives to be inclusive, welcoming youth of diverse identities and backgrounds — including girls and special needs Scouts. Donations help ensure that all children, regardless of their gender or circumstances, can participate in Scouting activities.

Your donations can directly benefit your local councils, providing them with necessary resources, training, and activities. This enhances the experience for all participants, allowing them to enjoy the full benefits of Scouting.

Ways to Support Scouting This Holiday Season

Supporting Scouting America this Giving Tuesday and throughout the holiday season is easy and impactful. Here are several ways you can make a difference:

Make a Direct Donation

Consider making a one-time or recurring donation through your local council’s Giving page. Your contributions can help fund essential programs and activities.

Participate in Fundraising Events

Scouting troops often hold fundraising events. One classic example is the Popcorn Fundraiser, in which your Boy Scout fundraising popcorn donations can be used to cover registration fees, uniforms, trips, activities, day camps, summer camps, and high adventure experiences with less out-of-pocket expense for Scouting families. Check your local troop’s calendar and join in! 

Take Advantage of Tax Credits

In some states, donations to Scouting can qualify for educational income tax credits (EITC). This means that if you own a business, your generosity not only helps the Scouts but may also benefit you come tax season. 

Volunteer Your Time

If you’re looking to contribute in a more hands-on way, consider volunteering with your local troop. Whether it’s helping at events or mentoring young Scouts, your time is a valuable gift.

Spread the Word

Share your support for Scouting America on social media. Encourage friends and family to donate to or participate in local events. Your voice can amplify the message and inspire others to give.

This Giving Tuesday and throughout the holiday season, consider the profound impact your support can have on your local chapter of Scouting America. Your contributions help nurture the next generation of leaders, promote community engagement, and foster lasting friendships. By giving back to Scouting, you’re investing in a brighter future for our youth and, by extension, American communities everywhere.

Invest in the Future of Scouting With Laurel Highlands Council

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 reap all the benefits Scouting offers and achieve personal success. 

On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, the Laurel Highlands Council is participating in #GivingTuesday, a global generosity movement. This is your opportunity to help us empower the youth in our region to thrive and become the leaders of tomorrow.

Scouting’s programs and outdoor adventures provide equal opportunities for young people to explore new horizons, serve their communities, build self-confidence, and develop essential leadership skills. These experiences shape not only their youth but also their adulthood, fostering respect for family, community, religion, country, and self.

Your donations will support vital programs for youth and offer opportunities for young individuals to become prepared leaders of tomorrow.

Join us on this impactful journey to make a positive change in our community. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, December 3, 2024, or donate today!