This past summer, thousands of Scouts met in West Virginia for the National Jamboree. A week later, contingents of Scouts gathered in South Korea for the World Scout Jamboree. Both events allow for Scouts to unite in the spirit of Scouting and have fun.
If your Scouts didn’t attend, they can still get in on the Jamboree fun this year. Jamboree-on-the-Air and Jamboree-on-the-Internet help Scouts connect through annual digital and amateur radio events. This year, these events will be Oct. 20-22.
More than 2 million Scouts from more than 170 countries should log on or turn on a ham radio over that weekend. They will learn about communications, discover other cultures, and enjoy activities and live shows. These events are open to Scouts of all ages; find registration here.
For the Jamboree-on-the-Internet, all you need is an internet-enabled device like a computer, laptop, tablet or mobile phone. If you have a ham radio, you should be good for the Jamboree-on-the-Air. Many Scouts choose to visit a local amateur radio operator’s ham shack or a ham shack at a council camp.
Safety rules for these events include safeguarding personal information and having adult supervision. A World Scout Organization “Safe From Harm” team can be contacted if you witness any hurtful or suspicious activity.
Connect around the world
Jamboree-on-the-Air launched in 1958 out of Scouts’ increased interest in amateur radio. Likewise, the Jamboree-on-the-Internet was first offered in 1996. Both have been offered every year over the third weekend of October.
Not only do the events provide opportunities to try fun activities and talk with Scouts from around the country and world, but participation can also fulfill requirements for Cub Scout Adventures, the Citizenship in the World merit badge and the International Spirit Award. This is also a great opportunity for Scouts BSA members to explore concepts in the Radio and Digital Technology merit badges.
Check with your local council to see if related events are already planned for Jamboree-on-the-Air and Jamboree-on-the-Internet. You can also search this database for local radio clubs to help. The resource is hosted by the American Radio Relay League, which is the national association for amateur radio, and it cooperates closely with the BSA.
After attending, you can order this cool patch from the Scout Shop.
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