Scouting America: A New Name for a Transformative Program
Meeting the Evolving Needs of Young People
After nine months of anticipation, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) officially changed its name on its 115th anniversary. The organization, now known as Scouting America, aims to adapt to the changing needs of young people, as announced in a statement released on Saturday.
Embracing Inclusivity
This name change follows a series of policy changes by the organization, including the admission of girls in 2018 and the acceptance of gay youth in 2013, followed by the lifting of the ban on gay adult leaders in 2015. Scouting America is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all young people can thrive.
Rebranding and Membership Spike
There was some initial backlash to the gender-neutral name change, but CEO Roger Krone reported a small spike in membership after the rebranding announcement in May. Over 15,000 new scouts joined, bringing the total membership to over 1 million.
The Core Mission of Scouting America
As the nation’s leading youth program, Scouting America focuses on character development, leadership, fun, and outdoor exploration. The organization aims to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices throughout their lives by instilling the values of the Scout Oath and Law.
Preparing Youth for a Changing World
Scouting America remains dedicated to providing young people with the values, skills, and experiences they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Whether it’s camping trips, pinewood derby car races, or trail hikes, every adventure encourages personal growth by teaching youth how to set and achieve goals with determination.
A Safe and Supportive Environment
Scouting America reaffirms its commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for youth. The organization believes in instilling essential qualities in young people and helping them develop into tomorrow’s leaders.
Rebuilding After Challenges
The rebranding comes as Scouting America faced challenges, including a decline in membership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the organization recently faced a court order to pay a $2.46 billion settlement to victims of sexual abuse by BSA officials and volunteers. Filing for bankruptcy allowed the organization to continue its operations.
Scouting America’s new name is now featured on its website, while its social media accounts still retain their traditional handles. The organization’s commitment to providing transformative experiences for young people remains unwavering. With over 130 million Americans having gone through Scouting America programs since its founding in 1910, the organization’s impact on generations of Americans is undeniable.
Fox News Digital’s Michael Dorgan and the Associated Press contributed to this report.
