NEW YORK (AP) — The Boy Scouts of America, now known as Scouting America, is slowly stabilizing after a series of tumultuous years marked by major policy shifts and a bankruptcy declaration. Its decision to welcome members from the LGBTQ+ community and allow girls to join faced opposition, which, coupled with financial challenges, posed a significant threat to its existence.
Throughout its 115-year history, the organization has witnessed a decline in youth participation, yet recent reports indicate a slight membership increase. This resurgence can be partly attributed to the unwavering support from numerous religious organizations that continue to align their missions with those of scouting.
Bill Guglielmi, chair of the National Catholic Committee on Scouting, stated, “There is a hunger out there now for finding a values-based organization.” He encourages parents to engage their children by joining Catholic scouting units, highlighting the organization’s commitment to spiritual development and community service.
Traditional outdoor activities are now supplemented with modern experiences and merit badges, including those focusing on technology and community engagement. Moreover, the commitment to prayer remains a central tenet, as leaders emphasize the importance of worship in scouting activities.
Faith organizations constitute nearly 42% of the approximately 40,000 scouting units, with the Catholic Church leading as the primary sponsor. Despite the challenges faced, Scouting America aims to embrace its diverse religious affiliations while remaining true to its foundational principles of character and leadership development.
Roger Krone, the organization’s president and CEO since its emergence from bankruptcy, emphasized that while they are welcoming to diverse families, the spiritual core of scouting is unwavering. He invites non-religious families to explore scouting, emphasizing its positive effects on youth education and personal growth.
Troop 228, chartered by a Catholic church in California, exemplifies inclusivity by welcoming scouts of all faiths into their activities. This approach fosters a learning environment where curiosity about different beliefs thrives.
Even with some factions forming alternatives after policy changes, dedicated leaders within Scouting America remain focused on character development, spiritual growth, and community service. By integrating faith and scouting, the organization aims to bridge gaps in today’s society, fostering a new generation committed to ethical values.
