LIFE SKILLS

Scouts BSA is the holds Scouting experience for youth in the fifth grade through high school. Service, community engagement and leadership development become increasingly important parts of the program as youth lead their own activities and work their way toward earning Scouting’s highest rank, Eagle Scout.

One hundred years after Arthur Eldred of New York earned this nation’s first Eagle Scout Award, new, independent research demonstrates the significant, positive impact Eagle Scouts have on society every day. Since it was first awarded in 1912, more than 2 million young men have achieved the Boy Scouts of America’s highest rank. Since Scouts BSA allowed girls to join Scouting movement in 2019, over 1,000 girls have joined the EAGLE RANK, proving that GIRLS can do anything boys can do. To become an Eagle Scout, a Scout has to earn all seven ranks, be in a leadership role actively involved in their troop, complete an Eagle Community Service Project and earn 21 merit badges to say the least. A study conducted by Baylor University called "Merit Beyond the Badges," found that Eagle Scouts are more likely than others who have never been in Scouting to:

• Have higher levels of planning and preparation skills, be goal-oriented, and network with others

• Be in a leadership position at their place of employment or local community

• Report having closer relationships with family and friends

• Volunteer for religious and nonreligious organizations

• Donate money to charitable groups

• Work with others to improve their neighborhoods