WHAT IS
SCOUTS BSA?
WHO CAN BE
A SCOUT
Scouts BSA is a year-round program for youth who are 11 years old through 17 years old. They may also start at 10 years old and in fifth grade — if joining after March 1 or if the Scout has earned the Arrow of Light in Cub Scouts. BSA provides fun, adventure, learning, challenge, and responsibility to help the youth become the best version of themselves. Open to any young person, all of whom will have the chance to rise to the rank of Eagle.
THE
SCOUT OATH
On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.
THE
SCOUT LAW
The Scout Law has 12 points. Each is a goal for every Scout. A Scout tries to live up to the Law every day. It is not always easy to do, but a Scout always tries.
A Scout is…
TRUSTWORTHY
Tell the truth and keep promises. People can depend on you.
LOYAL
Show that you care about your family, friends, Scout leaders, school, and country.
HELPFUL
Volunteer to help others without expecting a reward.
FRIENDLY
Be a friend to everyone, even people who are very different from you.
COURTEOUS
Be polite to everyone and always use good manners.
KIND
Treat others as you want to be treated. Never harm or kill any living thing without good reason.
OBEDIENT
Follow the rules of your family, school, and pack. Obey the laws of your community and country.
CHEERFUL
Look for the bright side of life. Cheerfully do tasks that come your way. Try to help others be happy.
THRIFTY
Work to pay your own way. Try not to be wasteful. Use time, food, supplies, and natural resources wisely.
BRAVE
Face difficult situations even when you feel afraid. Do what you think is right despite what others might be doing or saying.
CLEAN
Keep your body and mind fit. Help keep your home and community clean.
REVERENT
Be reverent toward God. Be faithful in your religious duties. Respect the beliefs of others.
THE
SCOUT MOTTO
BE PREPARED
In the first part of Scouting for Boys, Robert Baden-Powell explains the meaning of the phrase:
“The scouts’ motto is founded on my initials, it is: BE PREPARED, which means, you are always in a state of readiness in mind and body to do your DUTY;
Be Prepared in Mind by having disciplined yourself to be obedient to every order, and also by having thought out beforehand any accident or situation that might occur, so that you know the right thing to do at the right moment, and are willing to do it.
Be Prepared in Body by making yourself strong and active and able to do the right thing at the right moment, and do it.”
