NEW YORK (RTW) — Scouting America, the rebranded Boy Scouts of America, has endured a tumultuous 12 years marked by significant changes and legal challenges. Opening up to gay individuals and allowing girls to join sparked some controversy, while a devastating bankruptcy process hampered its operations.
Amid these hurdles, the 115-year-old organization appears to be stabilizing with a slight uptick in membership last year. Reliance on the unwavering support of major religious denominations plays a pivotal role in this resurgence.
“This is the best time to be involved with Scouting America, especially through a Catholic unit,” asserts Bill Guglielmi, chair of the National Catholic Committee on Scouting. “There’s a growing desire for a values-based organization.”
Guglielmi emphasizes the successful blend of traditional scouting activities such as camping with modern pursuits like indoor skydiving and artificial intelligence merit badges. Central to their approach remains a strong commitment to communal worship.
Bill McCalister, a scoutmaster for over 40 years, notes the importance of a formal worship service during campouts, with many scouts expressing that this environment serves as their church.
A Diverse Faith Community
Faith-based organizations comprise 42% of Scouting America's nearly 40,000 units, with the Catholic Church leading with over 3,500 units. Other denominations also contribute significantly to the scouting family.
Despite a shift in dynamics—prompted by the lifting of a ban on gay youth and the inclusion of girls—the organization intends to maintain its religious ethos, reaffirming the importance of “Duty to God.”
Scouting America’s CEO Roger Krone emphasizes the organization’s foundational beliefs in character development, spiritual growth, and community service, making it an inviting space even for nonreligious families who might appreciate scouting’s activities.
Troop 228, sponsored by St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Church, demonstrates the organization's inclusive approach. Christine Tezai, an adult leader, remarks that participation in religious-themed events is open to all scouts, regardless of their faith background.
While some faith groups have pulled out due to recent policy changes, Scouting America remains a home for diverse communities, including Muslim and Jewish organizations, emphasizing its role in fostering unity and character building among young people.
The organization acknowledges its past mistakes, leveraging rigorous child-protection policies aimed at ensuring a safe environment for all members. Looking to the future, there's a commitment to blend traditional values with innovative practices, appealing to new generations while honoring the organization's rich heritage.
