About Scouts BSA

Scouts BSA is one of the nation’s largest and most prominent values-based youth development organizations, providing programs for young people that build character. The scouting movement itself was started by Lord Robert Baden-Powell in 1907, and has since spread throughout the world. It was brought to America in 1910 by W.D. Boyce. Throughout a scout’s journey, they’ll go camping, make friends, and advance through ranks, but above all, they’ll learn values that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Scout Oath: On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.

Scout Law: A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.

Scout Mission: The mission of the Boy Scouts of America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

Scouts BSA Founding Legend

According to legend, W.D. Boyce was lost on a foggy street in London in 1909 when an unknown Scout came to his aid, guiding him back to his destination. The boy then refused Boyce’s tip, explaining that he was merely doing his duty as a Boy Scout. Soon thereafter, Boyce met with Robert Baden-Powell, who was the head of the Boy Scout Association at that time. Boyce returned to America, and, four months later, founded the Boy Scouts of America on February 8, 1910.

Badges/Advancement

Throughout their journey, scouts advance through their ranks: Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle. Eagle Scout is one of the most prestigious awards not only in scouting, but in the entire world.

One way scouts advance through their ranks is through earning merit badges, highlighting various skills they can acquire. A full list of these merit badges can be found here.