Scouting is a wonderful way for individuals of all ages to learn new skills, develop leadership, and build lasting relationships. As an adult, joining the Scouts BSA program can be a rewarding experience that allows you to make a positive impact on the lives of young people. In this article, we will guide you through the Scouts BSA adult application process and highlight the requirements you need to fulfill.
Why Become a Scouts BSA Adult Leader?
Becoming a Scouts BSA adult leader offers numerous benefits, including:
- The opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young people
- Developing new skills and knowledge in areas such as leadership, outdoor skills, and youth development
- Building lasting relationships with other adults and Scouts
- Enhancing your career prospects through leadership and volunteer experience
- Having fun and being part of a dynamic and supportive community
Scouts BSA Adult Application Requirements
To become a Scouts BSA adult leader, you must meet the following requirements:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Scouts BSA adult leader position.
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or a resident alien to apply for a Scouts BSA adult leader position.
- Background Check: You must undergo a background check, which includes a review of your criminal history and other factors.
- Youth Protection Training: You must complete Youth Protection Training, which teaches you how to recognize and prevent child abuse.
- Application: You must submit a Scouts BSA adult application, which includes providing personal and professional references.
- Interview: You must participate in an interview with a Scouts BSA representative, which will assess your suitability for a leadership position.
Scouts BSA Adult Application Process
The Scouts BSA adult application process involves the following steps:
- Find a Local Unit: Locate a Scouts BSA unit in your area and contact the unit leader to express your interest in becoming an adult leader.
- Submit an Application: Complete a Scouts BSA adult application and submit it to the unit leader or a Scouts BSA representative.
- Background Check: Undergo a background check, which will be arranged by the Scouts BSA organization.
- Youth Protection Training: Complete Youth Protection Training, which can be done online or in-person.
- Interview: Participate in an interview with a Scouts BSA representative, which will assess your suitability for a leadership position.
- Approval: Receive approval from the Scouts BSA organization to become an adult leader.
Scouts BSA Adult Leader Positions
There are various Scouts BSA adult leader positions available, including:
- Unit Leader: The unit leader is responsible for leading a Scouts BSA unit and overseeing the delivery of the program.
- Assistant Unit Leader: The assistant unit leader supports the unit leader and helps with the delivery of the program.
- Committee Member: Committee members support the unit leader and assistant unit leader and help with the administration of the unit.
- Merit Badge Counselor: Merit badge counselors teach Scouts specific skills and knowledge in areas such as outdoor skills, STEM, and arts.
Scouts BSA Adult Leader Training
Scouts BSA offers various training programs for adult leaders, including:
- Basic Leader Training: This training program teaches adult leaders the basics of Scouts BSA and how to deliver the program.
- Youth Protection Training: This training program teaches adult leaders how to recognize and prevent child abuse.
- Merit Badge Counselor Training: This training program teaches merit badge counselors how to teach Scouts specific skills and knowledge.
- Outdoor Skills Training: This training program teaches adult leaders outdoor skills such as camping, hiking, and first aid.
Conclusion
Becoming a Scouts BSA adult leader can be a rewarding experience that allows you to make a positive impact on the lives of young people. By following the Scouts BSA adult application process and meeting the requirements, you can join a dynamic and supportive community of adult leaders who are dedicated to helping Scouts develop new skills and knowledge. Remember to always follow the Scouts BSA adult leader policies and procedures and to complete the required training programs to ensure that you are equipped to deliver a high-quality program.
What is the minimum age requirement to become a Scouts BSA adult leader?
+The minimum age requirement to become a Scouts BSA adult leader is 18 years old.
What is the purpose of the background check for Scouts BSA adult leaders?
+The background check is to ensure that Scouts BSA adult leaders do not have a history of child abuse or other criminal activity that would make them unsuitable to work with children.
What is Youth Protection Training and why is it required for Scouts BSA adult leaders?
+Youth Protection Training is a training program that teaches Scouts BSA adult leaders how to recognize and prevent child abuse. It is required for all Scouts BSA adult leaders to ensure that they are equipped to provide a safe and supportive environment for Scouts.