Boy Scouts of America

The Boy Scouts of America (BSA), now rebranded as Scouting America, is one of the largest youth organizations in the United States. It was founded on February 8, 1910, by William D. Boyce, who was inspired by the British Scouting movement established by Robert Baden-Powell in 1908.

History

In 1909, Boyce encountered a British Scout in London who helped him navigate the city. Impressed by the principles and values of the Scouts, Boyce decided to establish a similar organization in the United States. He incorporated the BSA and sought a congressional charter, though it faced delays. Meanwhile, other competing youth organizations like the American Boy Scouts and the Woodcraft Indians existed, but they eventually merged with the BSA. Edmund Robinson, a YMCA administrator, played a crucial role in organizing the BSA as a national entity with support from prominent figures like Daniel Carter Beard and Ernest Thompson Seton[1][5].

By the early 1910s, the BSA had expanded rapidly, with James E. West becoming its first Chief Scout Executive in 1911. The organization's purpose was to teach patriotism, courage, self-reliance, and kindred values to young Americans. Over the years, BSA has evolved its programs, introducing divisions like Senior Scouts in 1935 for older boys, including Sea Scouts and Explorer Scouts[2][3]. The first National Jamboree was held in 1937, attracting over 27,000 Scouts to Washington, D.C.[3].

Mission and Values

The mission of Scouting America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law. The organization emphasizes teaching high ideals and proper behavior to younger generations, a vision supported by historical figures like Theodore Roosevelt[5].

Programs and Membership

At its peak in 1973, Scouting America had over 4 million youth participants. While membership has declined, it remains one of the largest youth organizations in the U.S., with about 1 million youth participants and over 400,000 adult volunteers as of recent years[5]. Scouting America's programs aim to foster leadership, citizenship, and outdoor skills among young Americans.

Rebranding and Evolution

In recent years, the BSA has undergone significant changes, rebranding itself as Scouting America. This shift reflects its broader inclusivity and adaptability to modern youth engagement needs while maintaining its core values and mission. Despite challenges such as declining membership in outdoor activities, the organization continues to be a pivotal force in American youth development.

Financial Information

The Boy Scouts of America operates as a nonprofit organization under EIN 910567260. As with many nonprofits, its financial operations are guided by principles of transparency and community support, though specific financial details are not detailed here.