Item 4: Scouts of America Presentation — original pdf

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SCOUTING AMERICA Increasing African American Involvement A Commitment to Youth Development The Evolution of Scouting A Commitment to Inclusion Scouting America Timeline Founding Name Change Strategic Focus Scouting was founded in 1910, promoting youth development and community service. In 2019, Scouts BSA was introduced to enhance inclusivity and modernize representation. A strategic priority was established to increase African American involvement in Scouting. Leadership Development Pathways Empowering Youth Through Scouting Cub Scouts Scouts BSA Cub Scouts provides a foundation for youth leadership, fostering essential skills through age-appropriate activities that promote teamwork, community involvement, and personal growth within a supportive environment. Scouts BSA emphasizes a progression of leadership growth, encouraging older youth to take on leadership roles while mentoring younger members, instilling confidence and responsibility as they advance through ranks. Scouting Programs for Older Youth/Young Adults These programs targets older adolescents, offering opportunities for leadership in high-adventure settings, promoting individual growth and team dynamics while engaging in community service and personal development projects. Leadership Foundations Core Scouting Values Scouting emphasizes character, citizenship, personal fitness, and responsibility as foundational leadership skills, fostering confidence and resilience among youth, equipping them to make meaningful contributions to their communities. A Scout is... - Trustworthy - Loyal - Helpful - Friendly - Courteous - Kind - Obedient - Cheerful - Thrifty - Brave - Clean - Reverent Building Strong Leadership Engaging Communities for Impact Role Models Community Engagement Civic Responsibility Adult leaders serve as critical role models, inspiring African American youth by demonstrating commitment to values embodied in Scouting. Their presence fosters trust and encourages youth participation and development. Involving families and faith communities creates a support network, enhancing the Scouting experience. This engagement strengthens ties and ensures that Scouting is embraced and valued within local cultures. Scouting emphasizes participation in service projects, demonstrating civic responsibility. These initiatives not only benefit communities but also instill a sense of pride and purpose in youth participants. Impacting Communities Scouts engage in community cleanup initiatives, demonstrating leadership and civic responsibility while fostering teamwork and strengthening local ties through meaningful service projects. Expanding Opportunities Representation and Cultural Pride Increasing Participation Cultural Connections Lifelong Skills Strategies aimed at broadening African American participation in Scouting are essential for fostering a more inclusive environment that reflects our diverse communities and enriches the Scouting experience. Aligning Scouting’s principles with African American heritage enhances cultural pride, building a sense of identity that draws youth into Scouting and encourages them to embrace their roots and leadership potential. Scouting develops critical lifelong skills such as leadership, teamwork, and community service, equipping youth to become active contributors to their communities and empowering them for future success. Scouting and Community Identity Values Aligned with Development 1.9% African American youth representation Out of 7,988 total youth in the Capitol Area Council, only 156 identify as African American, highlighting a significant opportunity for growth and increased involvement in Scouting programs. 54% African American Adult Leaders Out of a total of 63 African American adult leaders in the Capitol Area Council, 34 are African American men, showcasing significant representation and highlighting the potential for increased involvement and leadership growth within Scouting. Let's Work Together Let’s work together to: Partner as Chartered Organizations in our neighborhoods Serve on District and Council Boards to guide the future of Scouting Recruit and mentor the next generation of African American youth Email sherrick.west@scouting.org Email amara.davis@scouting.org Phone 512-626-1050 Phone 210-788-5439