WESTAMPTON - The nation’s foremost youth program providing young people with unique opportunities focused on character development, leadership, fun and outdoor exploration, will have a new name starting Feb. 8.
The Boy Scouts of American will celebrate its 115th birthday, marking a pivotal moment in the organization’s journey as it officially adopts its new name, Scouting America.
The organization continues to adapt to meet the evolving needs of young people in South Jersey, ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to benefit from this transformative program.
For more than a century, Scouting America’s mission has remained the same - to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law. Whether it’s a camping trip, a pinewood derby race, or a trail hike, every adventure encourages personal growth by teaching youth how to set goals and achieve them with determination.
“For 115 years, Scouting America has empowered young people with the values, skills, and experiences needed to navigate an ever-changing world,” Scout Executive and CEO Patrick Linfors said in a release. “Here in the Garden State Council, we see firsthand how Scouting shapes future leaders, builds character and creates lasting memories through adventure. As we embrace this new chapter, we remain committed to providing transformative opportunities for youth across New Jersey.”
Scouting America has remained committed to providing youth with a safe environment where they can learn meaningful life skills, create lifelong memories, and grow into tomorrow’s leaders. In fact, more than 130 million Americans have been through Scouting America programs since our founding in 1910. Currently, more than 1 million youth are served by 477,000 dedicated adult volunteers in local councils throughout the country.
“Scouting America has helped instill timeless values for multiple generations of Americans,” Scouting America president and CEO Roger Krone said. “In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the values and skills instilled by Scouting are more critical than ever, and the need for strong character, ethical decision-making, and effective leadership remains paramount. As we celebrate 115 years of service to our nation, we are reaffirming our commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment where young people can develop these essential qualities, empowering them to reach their full potential, and preparing them to become responsible and engaged citizens."
The weeklong birthday celebration will kick off with historic sites from coast-to-coast illuminated in red, white, and blue lights in honor of Scouting America — including Niagara Falls, Milwaukee’s Hoan Bridge, St. Louis’ The Wheel at Union Station, Cleveland’s Terminal Tower, Pennsylvania State Capitol, Louisiana State Capitol, Baltimore City Hall and Capella Tower, and I-35W Mississippi River Bridge in Minneapolis.
Scouts and non-Scouts alike can join in the celebration by sharing their favorite Scouting moments on Instagram (@boyscoutsofamerica) and TikTok (@scouting.america).
Lastly, Scouting America will raise the redesigned organization flag over its headquarters in Irving, Texas, Wednesday, Feb. 12.
Scouting America invites families, individuals and communities nationwide to join its mission.
To learn more, see GardenStateScouting.org.
