Why is an NFL running back at this Scout video shoot?

Look closely at the above photo. Yes, those are Scouts trading stories around a campsite (and in front of a camera). But see that familiar face in the circle? You may recognize David Montgomery, NFL running back, role model, Eagle Scout and official ambassador for Scouting America.

Clearly, this isn’t a campout. It’s part of something big: Scouting America’s 2025 fall recruitment preparation, and Montgomery is a key player in this year’s campaign. His story, from growing up in Scouting to making it in the NFL, is the kind of inspiration that speaks to young people and families all over the country.

So, Scouters, we’ve got a powerful message and a high-profile partner to help you spread the word. But how are you getting ready?

Here are a few ideas to help fuel your fall recruitment push

• Host a Be a Scout day: Invite families to experience hands-on Scouting experiences like outdoor cooking, fishing, STEM activities and service projects right in their own communities.

• Game-time recruiting: Maybe you’ve taken Scouts to a pro sports game before. But this time, consider partnering with a local high school or youth sports teams for a Scout Night at a local game. And since you’ll be around some athletes, make sure they know professional athlete and superstar David Montgomery supports Scouting and managed to become an Eagle Scout while setting out for a career in football. Their kids can be part of the same great organization too.

• Use the tools on the brand center: Download our ready-to-share graphics and video clips featuring Montgomery to boost visibility on social media and invite families to join. Those will be hitting the brand center soon, so stay tuned.

• Back-to-school blitz: Get an early start on coordinating with schools to send home flyers, hold assemblies or set up lunchroom info tables ASAP. You can even consider scheduling events before the start of the school year, like setting up a booth at “meet the teacher” nights if your local schools allow. The sooner you can make things like this happen in the school year, the more success you will find (and the less distraction you may add to a school season already in session).

Share your ideas and plans for fall recruitment

David Montgomery is helping us light a fire this fall (literally and figuratively). Let’s make sure every family hears the message: Now’s the time to Scout!

What are your plans for the fall? What events does your unit have planned? Let us know in the comments.