Leader Resources

Adult and Youth Applications

Applications can be downloaded here as fill-able pdf forms.

 

 

Unit and Membership Renewal

Scouting America provides an online process for member and unit renewals. The link below contains several resources to help ensure a smooth and efficient renewal experience. All units and members currently registered with Scouting America must complete this process annually.

Youth Protection Training

  • Youth Protection training is required for all BSA registered volunteers.
  • Youth Protection training must be current for the entire charter year.  If a volunteer’s Youth Protection training record is not current for the entire year of registration, the volunteer will not be reregistered.

 

 

Required Clearances

All registered leaders must have current PA State Criminal and Child Abuse clearances, as well as either a Federal Criminal Background Check or a Volunteer Affidavit.

Adult Leader Training

Adult volunteers in the Scouting program should be trained to ensure they have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to provide a safe, enriching, and values-driven experience for youth. Proper training equips leaders with an understanding of Scouting’s mission, program structure, and policies, including essential topics like youth protection, outdoor skills, and leadership development. Trained leaders can effectively plan and deliver engaging activities, manage risks, and create a welcoming environment that fosters personal growth, teamwork, and character development in Scouts. By investing in training, adult volunteers not only enhance their own abilities but also strengthen the overall Scouting program, ensuring a positive and meaningful experience for every Scout.

Range and Target Activities

This program offers Scouts exciting opportunities to develop marksmanship, safety skills, and responsibility through shooting sports. With trained instructors and a strong emphasis on safety, Scouts can participate in archery, BB guns, rifle and shotgun shooting, and other target activities in a controlled environment. These experiences not only build confidence and discipline but also foster respect for firearms and equipment. Whether at summer camp, a district event, or a council-organized shooting sports day, the program provides a fun and educational way for Scouts to challenge themselves while learning valuable life skills.

Journey to Excellence

Scouting’s Journey to Excellence (JTE) is the BSA’s planning, performance, and recognition program designed to encourage and reward the success of our units. It is meant to encourage excellence in providing a quality program at all levels of the BSA.  You can download/view the JTE Guidebook and Scorecard for your program below.    If you would prefer a paper copy, please contact the Council Service Center and we will be happy to provide you with one!

Scoutbook

Scoutbook is the BSA’s online unit management tool and helps Scouts, parents and leaders track advancement and milestone achievements along the Scouting trail.

As of January 1, 2019, Scoutbook subscriptions are free to all scouting units.

Guide to Advancement

Many of your questions can be answered using the BSA Guide to Advancement which you can access below.   If you have any questions, please contact your District Executive or call the Council Service Center.

Request for Certificate of Insurance

Certificates of insurance verify that the BSA and local councils have insurance for an event or activity. In most cases when Scouting and Exploring activities are held at locations other than Scout property, the location requires a certificate of insurance from the BSA. The other parties usually want to be added to the BSA general liability policy as an additional insured.  Click HERE for more information on Certificates of Insurance.