2024 marks the Greater St. Louis Area Council's 39th annual Scouting for Food Good Turn, and it continues to be the largest single-day canned food drive in the United States. Over its 38-year history, Scouts have collected more than 54 million cans of food. During this drive, thousands of Scouts, parents, and leaders will collect non-perishable food items and distribute them to local food banks and pantries. On average, we collect almost 2 million food items each year.
The 2024 campaign begins on Saturday, November 16, with Scouts going door-to-door distributing custommade plastic grocery bags. On Saturday, November 23, Scouts will return to those neighborhoods to collect the bags filled with canned goods. The timing of the campaign coincides with the spirit of giving and appreciation associated with the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday season.
Youth Protection Mission Statement
True youth protection can be achieved only through the focused commitment of everyone in Scouting. It is the mission of Youth Protection volunteers and professionals to work within the Boy Scouts of America to maintain a culture of Youth Protection awareness and safety at the national, territory, area, council, district, and unit levels.
Shooting Sports Update: Starting September 1, Shooting Sports programs will be renamed “Range and Target Activities” and see significant changes. Highlights include new limits for Venturers, updated range safety requirements, and revised policies for firearm use. For a full overview of the new regulations and how they may affect your unit, check out the Shooting Sports FAQ website and the updated AgeAppropriate Guidelines for Scouting Activities
Camping Accommodation Update: Starting September 1, there are new guidelines for youth sleeping accommodations. Among them is a change that allows the parent or guardian of older youth in Scouts BSA, Venturing, Sea Scouting, and Exploring to share accommodation with their child under certain circumstances. Additionally, youth siblings of the same gender may share accommodations regardless of their ages with permission. For more details on these updates and how they impact your camping experience, see the Guide to Safe Scouting.
Buddy System Update: Effective September 1, new guidelines for the buddy system aim to enhance safety and support in Scouting activities. Key changes include requirements for mixed-gender buddy groups, age gap limits, and the role of parents or legal guardians as buddies. Ensure you're up-to-date with these important updates to keep everyone safe and supported. For complete details, check out the Guide to Safe Scouting.
MANDATORY Youth Protection Training
The Boy Scouts of America places the greatest importance on creating the most secure environment possible for our youth members. To maintain such an environment, the BSA developed numerous procedural and leadership selection policies and provides parents and leaders with resources for the Cub Scout, Scouts BSA, and Venturing programs.
• Youth Protection training is required for all BSA registered volunteers and is a joining requirement.
• Youth Protection training must be taken every two years. If a volunteer’s Youth Protection training record is not current at the time of recharter, the volunteer will not be re-registered. Read and know more: https://www.scouting.org/training/youthprotection/
Youth Safety & Policy Updates
Safe Scouting Resources
Reporting incidents promptly is critical so we can respond to them in an appropriate manner and offer assistance to the injured party. Plus, details included in reports are valuable in helping us prevent the recurrence of similar incidents.
All injuries and illnesses that occur during official Scouting activities (and required medical attention beyond onsite first-aid) must be reported within 24-48 hours to the Safe Scouting Specialist or your District Executive by completing an Incident Report Form. In the event an injury or illness required medical treatment, an HSR claim form can be submitted within 90 days from the date of injury. You can obtain a form by reporting the incident using the Incident Report Form and sending it to the Council’s Risk & Safety representative. Please contact our Safe Scouting Specialist at Safe.Scouting@stlbsa.org for claim forms, instructions and assistance.
Activity Planning and Risk Assessment
No organization, including Scouting America, can anticipate every possible activity that could be conducted as part of a unit, district, or council event. As such, it is neither the intent nor the desire of the BSA to provide specific guidance on subjects that are not core to the program or part of our literature. For those activities that support the values of the Scouting America, there are several tools available for participants that will help them plan for a fun and safe activity or event. Good planning and preparedness prior to executing the activity is key to success. This guide is one of those tools. Other such resources are the Program Hazard Analysis, safety checklists, and the PAUSE card. Find out more at: https://www.scouting.org/health-and-safety/gss/gss07/#b
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Safe Scouting & Incident Reporting
Submit your Scouting Story
We know you are snapping away and taking lots of videos when out doing Scouting activities, and we want to see them so we can share all the great things our Scouts are doing!
https://stlbsa.org/digital-submissions/
Serving Scouts W/ Disabilities
Many units have at least one Scout with Special Needs, which includes autism, attention deficit disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, asthma, diabetes, hearing or visual impairment, and many others. Find support, training, and resources to help your Scout and unit be more successful. https://stlbsa.org/special-needs-scouts/
Families needing financial assistance
For families needing additional assistance, please share this link https://stlbsa.org/resources/membership-fees-faq/
Scouting Religious Emblems
Every Scout can earn their faith’s religious emblem, which can be worn on their uniform as a youth or an adult. Religious emblems fulfill the Duty to God adventure requirements for Cub Scouts, Scout Spirit requirements for Scouts BSA, and the TRUST award for Venturing. https://stlbsa.org/advancement-awards/religious-emblems-program/
Parent/Leader Resources
Check out the toolbox and helpful links for parents and adult leaders. https://stlbsa.org/resources/
Volunteer!
Are you looking to volunteer? Let us help match you with the perfect volunteer experience using the skills, talents, and resources you wish to share with the Scouts and their families! https://stlbsa.org/get-involved/volunteer/
Reconnect w/ Scout Alumni
Alums like you are passionate voices strengthening the program, promoting alum accomplishments, and celebrating the Scouting spirit and traditions. https://stlbsa.org/get-involved/alumni-association/
Memorial and Tribute Gifts
Looking for a unique way to celebrate someone special in your life? Tired of buying gift certificates and toys? Consider making a gift in honor of the Scouter in your life! By donating in honor of someone or a milestone, you are making a difference in the lives of local youth.
This is also a great way to thank a Scout leader who has made a difference in your or your child’s life.
https://stlbsa.org/give-now/memorial-gifts/
Scout Family Life
2025 Camp Staff Applications now available!
Exciting news! Camp staff applications open on October 1st! If you're passionate about the outdoors, love working with kids, and want to make unforgettable memories, this is your chance! Apply early and join our awesome team for the adventure of a lifetime! Must be at least 15 by June 1, 2025. CIT applicants must be at least 14 by June 1, 2025
https://stlbsa.org/camps/work-at-our-camps/
2025 Cub Scout Camp
We’re excited to announce Cub Scout Overnight Summer Camp dates! Get ready for a summer filled with adventure, fun, and lifelong memories. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity for your Scouts to experience the ultimate summer camp adventure. Stay tuned for more details and spread the word! https://stlbsa.org/camps/cub-scoutovernight-camps/
2025 Scouts BSA Camp
Reserve your spot today for Scouts BSA Summer Camp in 2025! You can choose a new adventure with four camps without traveling far from home. https://stlbsa.org/camps/scouts-bsa-venturing-summercamp/
Swift High Adventure Base 2025
You don't have to travel far for High Adventure! Venturers and Scouts BSA members at least 14 can attend Swift High Adventure Base at S-F Scout Ranch. Learn more about Swift and how to participate at https://stlbsa.org/camps/venturing-summer-camp/
Fall Ranger Program at S-F
November 1 to 3, 2024
Scouts and Venturers 14+ and Adults
S BAR F SCOUT RANCH - Farmington, MO 63640
Come experience the Ranch in the Fall by participating in the Fall Ranger Program. This weekend will allow participants to backpack the backcountry of S-F during a time of year that gives a whole new perspective on the scenery and wildlife that comprises this Scouting paradise. Participants will try their hand at High Ropes Challenge Course, trail cooking, backpacking, and more, which are all activities that Scouts and Venturers may do during the week-long summer Ranger program. https://stlbsa.org/scouts-bsa-calendar/
Cabin Camping
EVERYONE
Cabin Camping is a great way to enjoy our camps, especially in the cooler weather! Our camps have cabins with various amenities to support your group's needs. Check out our cabin brochure to learn about available options, and book your cabin today!
We’re excited to announce Cub Scout Overnight Summer Camp dates! Get ready for a summer filled with adventure, fun, and lifelong memories.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity for your Scouts to experience the ultimate summer camp adventure. Stay tuned for more details and spread the word! https://stlbsa.org/camps/cub-scout-overnightcamps/
Halloween Events
EVERYONE
All throughout October
Get Ready for a Spook-tacular October! Join us for some frightful fun at these exciting events:
Spook-o-ree: Oct 11-13 at Rhodes France Scout Reservation
Haunted Hayrides: Oct 18, 19, 25, 26 at Camp Warren Levis
Fall Fright Fest: Oct 19 at Beaumont Scout Reservation
Gather your courage, bring your friends, and make this October unforgettable! https://stlbsa.org/cub-scouts-calendar/
Scoutbotics
CUB SCOUTS
SCOUTS BSA
REGISTERED SCOUTS BSA ADULT VOLUNTEERS/LEADERS
October 19, 2024
Saint Louis University - Parks College, St. Louis MO 63103
Preregistration Required
Back again, join us for a fun day of introductory robotics. Cub Scouts will work with Micro: bits and learn how to program and build, and connect with larger robots to do tasks with. They can keep their Micro: bit for other uses. Scouts BSA will have a longer day of fun to accomplish the Robotics merit badge along with getting their own robotic kit to build, program, and compete with. Don't miss this fun at Saint Louis University! Registration Closes: October 14, 2024 https://stlbsa.org/stem/upcoming-stem-events/
Cabin Camping
EVERYONE
Cabin Camping is a great way to enjoy our camps, especially in the cooler weather! Our camps have cabins with various amenities to support your group's needs. Check out our cabin brochure to learn about available options, and book your cabin today! https://stlbsa.org/wpcontent/uploads/2022/10/GSLAC-Cabins.pdf
CUB SCOUTS
2025 Camp Staff Applications now available!
Exciting news! Camp staff applications open on October 1st! If you're passionate about the outdoors, love working with kids, and want to make unforgettable memories, this is your chance! Apply early and join our awesome team for the adventure of a lifetime! Must be at least 15 by June 1, 2025. CIT applicants must be at least 14 by June 1, 2025
https://stlbsa.org/camps/work-at-our-camps/
Fall Ranger Program at S-F
November 1 to 3, 2024
Scouts and Venturers 14+ and Adults
S BAR F SCOUT RANCH - Farmington, MO 63640
Come experience the Ranch in the Fall by participating in the Fall Ranger Program. This weekend will allow participants to backpack the backcountry of S-F during a time of year that gives a whole new perspective on the scenery and wildlife that comprises this Scouting paradise. Participants will try their hand at High Ropes Challenge Course, trail cooking, backpacking, and more, which are all activities that Scouts and Venturers may do during the week-long summer Ranger program. https://stlbsa.org/scouts-bsa-calendar/ NEW PROGRAM!!
Scouts BSA Winter Camp
Rhodes France Scout Camp
December 26 to 29 2024
Units have asked - so we listened! Join us for GSLAC Scouts BSA Winter Camp at Rhodes France! Registration is open now! https://scoutingevent.com/312-wintercamp
Scouts BSA First Class Orienteering
Requirement Event
October 26, 2024
Beaumont Scout Reservation - High Ridge Missouri 63049
Preregistration Required
Bring your troop out to Beaumont and complete the Orienteering requirements for First Class by working with our Map and Compass experts to complete an Orienteering course! Pre-registration is required. Scouts must be under the supervision of their unit leaders and should have experience using a map and compass. Registration Closes: October 23, 2024. https://scoutingevent.com/312-89559
Den Chief Training –Virtual Event
October 26, 2024
Preregistration Required
We welcome all Scouts BSA who are interested in growing and becoming Den Chiefs, but remember that a Scout must be mature enough to handle the position. Although the conference is designed primarily to explain the Den Chief's role in supporting a Den Leader, All Den Leaders are STRONGLY encouraged to attend this valuable learning experience. Den Leaders would benefit from the event by obtaining a better understanding of how to utilize Den Chiefs in den operations. Registration Closes: October 24, 2024. https://www.scoutingevent.com/312-2024falldenchief
Scoutbotics
SCOUTS BSA
October 19, 2024
Saint Louis University - Parks College, St. Louis MO 63103
Back again, join us for a fun day of introductory robotics. Cub Scouts will work with Micro: bits and learn how to program and build, and connect with larger robots to do tasks with. They can keep their Micro: bit for other uses. Scouts BSA will have a longer day of fun to accomplish the Robotics merit badge along with getting their own robotic kit to build, program, and compete with Take advantage of this fun at Saint Louis University! Registration Closes: October 14, 2024 https://stlbsa.org/stem/upcoming-stem-events/
SCOUTS BSA & VENTURING
University of Scouting
SCOUTS BSA / VENTURERS
ALL PARENTS/REGISTERED LEADERS
November 02, 2024
Webster University, St. Louis, MO 63119
Preregistration is strongly encouraged; however, walk-ins are welcomed. The University of Scouting is a training event that offers the widest variety of training opportunities in all program areas, all in one place! You will find about anything to do with Scouting at the University of Scouting, whether you are a scout, leader, commissioner, or parent! Courses will include some of your favorites from years past, merit badges, and fantastic new content.
Plan for a great day of learning, growing, and making new friends in Scouting while you also enjoy special opportunities at our Midway with vendors, pop-up discussions, and sharing opportunities. Registration Closes: October 25, 2024. https://www.scoutingevent.com/312-24UofS
Wilderness First Aid Training
Multiple Sessions
Preregistration Required
Be Prepared for your next backcountry experience by getting trained in Wilderness First Aid. This 16-hour blended learning certification course meets requirements for BSA’s National High Adventure Bases (Philmont, Sea Base, Northern Tier, Summit Bechtel Reservation) and is recommended for registered Scout Leaders, Venturers, and Scouts who are planning backcountry camping, hiking, canoeing, and other high adventure activities. Participants must be 14 years old or older. This certification is good for two years. Multiple courses are available from November through April.
Don't wait, register today! Participant prerequisites: Be at least 14 years old https://scoutingevent.com/312-2425WRFA
Intro to Outdoor Leadership Skills Challenge Course
REGISTERED SCOUTS BSA ADULT VOLUNTEERS/LEADERS
November 09, 2024
Beaumont Scout Reservation - High Ridge Missouri 63049
Preregistration Required
The course is designed for Scouts BSA leaders who have been in Scouting for at least (2) years and have observed and practiced the Patrol Method. Participants in the course will be tested on a slate of skills needed to successfully take their youth into the outdoors. Each participant will have two chances to pass each skill center, with no remedial training available. This course intends to allow the participant to bypass the weekend-long IOLS course, so the participant must demonstrate proficiency in all of the following areas: Camping, Patrol Method, Flags, Campsite Selections, Plant and Animal, Ropes and Lashings, Map and Compass, Cooking, Fire Building, Wood Tools, Campfire, Interfaith Worship and Backpacking/Hiking/Outdoor Ethics.
Participant prerequisites: Must be registered members of a Scouting unit, have taken Scoutmaster Training either online or in classroom sessions, and hold current certifications in Youth Protection and Hazardous Weather training. Registration Closes: November 04, 2024. https://www.scoutingevent.com/312-IOLSChallenge
Horse Trail Rides
SCOUTS BSA / VENTURERS
Now until February 28, 2025
Beaumont Scout Reservation - High Ridge Missouri 63049
Preregistration Required
Experience camp on horseback! Scouts BSA, Venturers, and Explorers can hit the trail, beginning and ending at Nagel Base located on Beaumont Scout Reservation. Trail Rides are available for 1.5-, 3-, and 6hour lengths, or you can even do an overnight ride. The longer the ride, the more you will get to learn and experience! Participant prerequisites: All riders must be age 11 or older and not weigh over 230 pounds. Reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance https://campreservation.com/312/Camps/280
SCOUTS BSA & VENTURING
Beaumont Camp master Corps REGISTERED ADULT VOLUNTEERS/LEADERS
Beaumont Scout Reservation - High Ridge Missouri 63049
The Beaumont Camp master Corps is a group of registered and trained Scouters who serve at Beaumont Scout Reservation whenever Scouting units and families use the camp. Members of the Camp master Corps have a working knowledge of BSA outdoor programs, the patrol method, and troop, pack, and crew operations. During the weekend, Camp masters are visible in camp, visiting units at campsites and program facilities to provide assistance and monitor the safety and security of all areas. Camp masters spend the weekend in a comfortable building with simple amenities (kitchen, cooking utensils, private bathrooms, and beds) while providing service to units camping at Beaumont during the weekend. Typically, weekend duties begin when the Camp master arrives on Friday and end on Sunday around noon. Camp masters select their own time and frequency of service, usually serving two to four times a year. For more information, contact Tom McCarthy at tfmccarthy62@gmail.com
University
of Scouting SCOUTS BSA / VENTURERS
ALL PARENTS/REGISTERED LEADERS
November 02, 2024
Webster University, St. Louis, MO 63119
Preregistration is strongly encouraged; however, walk-ins are welcomed. The University of Scouting is a training event that offers the widest variety of training opportunities in all program areas, all in one place! You will find about anything to do with Scouting at the University of Scouting, whether you are a scout, leader, commissioner, or parent! Courses will include some of your favorites from years past, merit badges, and fantastic new content. Plan for a great day of learning, growing, and making new friends in Scouting while you also enjoy special opportunities at our Midway with vendors, pop-up discussions, and sharing opportunities. Registration Closes: October 25, 2024 https://www.scoutingevent.com/312-24UofS
Shooting Sports Update: Starting September 1, Shooting Sports programs will be renamed “Range and Target Activities” and see significant changes. Highlights include new limits for Venturers, updated range safety requirements, and revised policies for firearm use. For a full overview of the new regulations and how they may affect your unit, check out the Shooting Sports FAQ website and the updated AgeAppropriate Guidelines for Scouting Activities.
Camping Accommodation Update: Starting September 1, there are new guidelines for youth sleeping accommodations. Among them is a change that allows the parent or guardian of older youth in Scouts BSA, Venturing, Sea Scouting, and Exploring to share accommodation with their child under certain circumstances. Additionally, youth siblings of the same gender may share accommodations regardless of their ages with permission. For more details on these updates and how they impact your camping experience, see the Guide to Safe Scouting
Buddy System Update: Effective September 1, new guidelines for the buddy system aim to enhance safety and support in Scouting activities. Key changes include requirements for mixed-gender buddy groups, age gap limits, and the role of parents or legal guardians as buddies. Ensure you're up-to-date with these important updates to keep everyone safe and supported. For complete details, check out the Guide to Safe Scouting
