Boy Scouts of America - Crossroads of the West Council

TRADITIONAL SCOUTING - The Scouting program includes the following: Lion ScoutsA fun introduction to the Scouting program for kindergarten-age youth eager to get going! Lions do adventures with their adult partners and other Lions every month. This program introduces youth and their families to Scouting and the outdoors as it builds a foundation of character. A Lion den is part of the Cub Scout pack. Tiger ScoutsOne-year, family-oriented program for a group of teams, each consisting of a first-grade (or 7-year-old) boy or girl and an adult partner (usually a parent). A Tiger den is part of the Cub Scout pack. Cub ScoutingFamily- and community-centered approach to learning citizenship, compassion, and courage through service projects, ceremonies, games, and other activities promoting character development and physical fitness.Scouts BSAWith the Scout Oath and Scout Law as guides, and the support of parents and religious and neighborhood organizations, Scouts develop an awareness and appreciation of their role in their community and become well-rounded young men and women through the advancement of the program. Scouts progress in rank through achievements, gain additional knowledge and responsibilities, and earn merit badges that introduce a lifelong hobby or a rewarding career.VenturingProvides experiences to help young men and women, ages 14or 13 with completion of the eighth gradethrough 20, become mature, responsible, caring adults. Young people learn leadership skills and participate in challenging outdoor activities, including having access to BSA camping properties, a recognition program, and Youth Protection training. The Order of the Arrow is the BSA national honor society for experienced campers, based on Native American traditions and is dedicated to the ideal of cheerful service and brotherhood. Nearly 10,000 youth served through 99 Cub Scout packs, 194 Scouts BSA troops, and 26 Venturing crews.

Learning for Life/Exploring programs: Learning for Life offers seven programs designed to support schools and community-based organizations in their efforts to prepare youth to successfully handle the complexities of contemporary society and to enhance their self-confidence, motivation, and self-esteem. The seven programs focus on character development and career education. Learning for Life programs help youth develop social and life skills, assist in character and career development, and help youth formulate positive personal values. It prepares youth to make ethical decisions that will help them achieve their full potential. Exploring is a worksite-based program. It is part of Learning for Life's career education program also for young men and women who are 14 (and have completed the eighth grade) through 20 years old.Exploring's purpose is to provide experiences that help young people mature and to prepare them to become responsible and caring adults. Explorers are ready to investigate the meaning of interdependence in their personal relationships and communities. Exploring is based on a unique and dynamic relationship between youth and the organizations in their communities. Local community organizations initiate a specific Explorer post by matching their people and program resources to the interests of young people in the community. The result is a program of activities that helps youth pursue their special interests, grow, and develop. Exploring programs are based on five areas of emphasis: career opportunities, life skills, citizenship, character education, and leadership experience. Over 2750 youth served through 28 Learning for Life groups and 11 Explorer posts.