(Photo courtesy of Boys Scouts of America)
Five years ago today, Boy Scouts of America (BSA) opened participation to include girls nationally. “Grit and perseverance were key as the young women who joined the 100-year-old BSA program blazed their own trail to Eagle Scout. Lifelong friendships, the journey to leadership, and unimaginable adventures have only begun,” said Jennifer Mooney, Crater Lake Council Assistant Scout Executive, and Mom of a female Eagle Scout, male BSA Scout, and female Cub Scout. “Today we celebrate the first five years of serving all youth, and look forward to the next 100 years, together.”
Over the last five years individuals, packs and troops, and families have seen positive impacts of serving all youth. With this inclusive model, whole families are participating in programs that deliver character development, leadership training for young people, all while remaining true to mission.
Over the last five years, from the Crater Lake Council (central and southern Oregon and part of northern California), 12 females have earned the top rank of Eagle Scout. These 12 female Eagle Scouts gave a combined total of 1,571 service hours for their projects with a total of 287 volunteers helping them.
Today, 20% of Crater Lake Council’s youth membership is female, 40% of our leaders are female, every Cub Scout pack is co-ed, and there are six active Scouts BSA Troops for girls.
In Cub Scouts, we provide ready-made opportunities for an entire family to do fun things together — because together — we can all grow into our very best future selves. All youth, ages five through fifth grade are eligible to join.
In Scouts BSA, the program is a traditional Scouting experience where youth can have their share of adventure in the great outdoors, develop a love of service by volunteering in the community, boost leadership skills through fun and exciting challenges, and create memories of a lifetime. There is no prior Scouting experience required. All youth, sixth grade through age 18 are eligible to join.
Families who are interested in joining Cub Scouts or Scouts BSA are encouraged to visit BeAScout.org to find their nearest unit(s) and contact information.
Click here to watch an interview with a local Scout who reflects on her Scouting experience and where her life is headed on the fifth anniversary.
