This morning at the BSA National Annual Meeting, the national organization announced that it will be rebranding to “Scouting America.” This change is intended to reflect the our ongoing commitment to welcoming every youth in America to experience the benefits of Scouting. The name will “officially” go into effect on February 8, 2025, the organization’s 115th birthday. 

I would ask you to read to the end of this email.

Things to know:

• The national council’s corporate name will not change.
• The national council’s federally chartered name with Congress will not change.
• The Scout Oath, Law, and motto will not change.
• In the 1970’s, the BSA used “Scouting / USA” as its brand to be more approachable to all families regardless of race.

For more than a century, the Boy Scouts of America has offered the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training, helping young people Be Prepared.  “Scouting America” will build on more than 114 years of guiding America’s youth, and it represents the next chapter of Scouting.

WHY REBRAND? Scouting America is the reflection of years of work to create an organization where we prepare every youth in America to lead a life of purpose and impact. Our new name is representative of the path we want Scouting to charter for the next century. Our organization welcomes all youth. Scouting is an environment where everyone should feel respected and valued.

OUR MISSION REMAINS THE SAME: As it has always been, Scouting America’s goal will be to continue providing young people fantastic experiences in both the outdoors and in their communities, where they can grow and learn with us in a safe environment.

• Scouting America will continue to prepare youth for lives of purpose and impact.
• Our mission remains the same: prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.

YOUTH SAFETY: Scouting has some of the most vigorous safety measures in place of any youth-serving organization. We aim to ensure families know their children will be safe, whether their child is attending a weekly Scout meeting, going on a weekend camping trip with the troop, or attending the National Jamboree with thousands of other Scouts. Underpinning our approach to safeguarding youth is a singular focus on PREVENTION. Scouting America is committed to providing a welcoming, safe environment where Scouts can become the best version of themselves by learning from and respecting each other. 

By now, all of you have heard us discuss the concept of a “large windshield and small rearview mirror” as we rolled out GCC 3.0 these past few months. Change can be challenging, but I know with your help, we can continue our journey to make Scouting stronger than ever in Arizona.

We will continue to update you as more of the rebrand campaign is rolled out from the national council, as well as GCC’s plan to optimize on the rebrand.

Thanks,

ap