Every Youth Deserves the Opportunity to be a Scout!
All the way back to the first Scout Executive in America in 1911, James E. West, Scouting has long been inclusive of those with special needs. Mr. West was in a wheel chair and we printed the first Braille Handbook in the 1920s.
In that long standing tradition, we want to make sure that every scout that joins in our council has the opportunity to succeed – and we are here to help ensure that happens.
We work hard to “mainstream” youth with disabilities rather than separate them into special programs. They participate in units alongside other scouts, engaging in the same activities and following the same rules. The Scouting programs are designed so that special skills are not required to succeed — just perseverance and the right attitude.
Cub Scouts
“Do Your Best” is the model for how all scouts are expected to complete all their adventures. We will happily work with families and unit leaders to make sure the scout has the best experience possible.
Scouts, BSA, Venturing, Sea Scouts
We can start by working with the leaders in the unit to see if small changes can help the scout advance. We can also use medical diagnoses, or IEP’s to make accommodations to rank and/or merit badge requirements depending on the medical needs of the individual scout. In many cases adjustments involve alternating to something of related/equivalent challenge to that particular scout, but require approvals up to the national level. We would work together on an individual need basis to help each scout navigate this process.
We look forward to working with each and every one of you who needs our help.
Special Needs Scouting Resources
- Introduction to Working with Scouts with Special Needs & Disabilities
- Serving Scouts with Disabilities
- Special Needs – Guide to Advancement
- Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class and First Class Ranks Alternative Requirements
- Application for Alternative Eagle Scout Rank Merit Badges
- Request for Registration Beyond Age Eligibility
