NEW YORK (AP) — Scouting America, the rebranded version of the Boy Scouts of America, has faced considerable challenges over the past decade, including bankruptcy and controversies surrounding its policies on inclusion. However, amidst these hurdles, the organization is exhibiting signs of stabilization, indicating a slight rise in membership, largely thanks to the strong support from religious affiliations that resonate deeply with its core mission.
Key figures within faith-based units express that now is an ideal time to engage with Scouting America, emphasizing the demand for organizations built upon strong values. Bill Guglielmi, chair of the National Catholic Committee on Scouting, states that parents are eager for value-oriented youth programs, highlighting the blend of traditional scouting activities with modern innovations like indoor skydiving and an artificial intelligence merit badge.
Worship remains an integral aspect of scouting, as described by Bill McCalister, a scoutmaster who emphasizes formal services and collective spiritual practices during campouts. Scouting America proudly affirms its ongoing commitment to faith, describing the breadth of faiths represented within its units. Approximately 42% of Scouting America’s nearly 40,000 chartered units are operated by religious organizations, with the Catholic Church leading the way in sponsorship.
Despite facing departures from some conservative factions and an overall decline in youth membership over recent decades, Scouting America has embraced inclusivity, welcoming youth of all backgrounds. Furthermore, Scouting America keeps its doctrinal roots intact, not shying away from its religious tenets even as it opens its doors to a wider audience.
Leaders within the organization anticipate a revival as they foster community ties and make comprehensive child-protection policies a top priority. Roger Krone, the organization’s president, advocates for an inclusive scouting environment, inviting families to explore how spiritual growth within the scouting program positively impacts youth. While examining the pathways for future growth, Krone acknowledges that the organization's values and mission remain essential to its identity.
The various religious groups that have remained with Scouting America now play a crucial role in its renaissance, with some attributing current participation trends to an increased focus on character development and communal service. As the organization pushes forward, it continues to navigate the delicate balance between tradition and modern relevance, striving to provide an enriching, values-based experience for America’s youth.
