Aims of the Boy Scouts of
America
Since the Boy Scouts of America began in 1910 millions of boys and
young men have enjoyed what Scouting has to offer. They have been on
memorable camping trips and learned how to live with nature, not
against it. They have earned numerous awards and been recognized for
countless achievements. But most of all, these young men have had a lot
of FUN, and possibly learned a few things in the process.
To have fun is an important part of the B.S.A., but it is only one of
the methods used to accomplish the three aims of the Boy Scouts
organization. These aims are:
1) To
build character,
2) To
foster citizenship, and
3) To
develop fitness.
The first aim, to build character, is a tough one to accomplish at
times. One dictionary describes character as “moral or ethic
quality.”
Another states that it is “qualities of honesty, courage, and
integrity.” Scouting adds four traits to this list; self
reliance, self
discipline, self confidence, and self- respect. When a boy begins to
develop these he begins to develop character.
The second aim, to foster citizenship, is to develop an active
participation in one's community. The individual ‘Good
Turn’ done by
the Scout is one way that this is done. Another is the troop service
project which could include litter cleanup, tree planting, food drives,
and visiting the elderly. Scouts also receive something in scouting
that every good citizen needs; the chance to practice and develop his
leadership skills by serving in troop and patrol leadership positions.
The third aim, to develop fitness, covers more then just being
physically fit. Scouting understands that there are four kind of
fitness: physical, mental, moral, and emotional. The B.S.A.
is
one of the few organizations that strives to help boys develop in each
of these areas.
These aims cannot be met by the Scouting organization alone. It takes
the cooperation of the troop leadership, the charter partner, and the
parents.
That's right, the parents. The B.S.A. is not a Baby-sitting clinic.
Successful troops have parents who are willing to help out their fair
share. These troop's parents encourage their sons to participate and
try their best.
Welcome to what we consider to be a successful troop. Welcome to
Scouting!
