Things You Should Know Archives

Expert shares how to increase the chances of earning a scholarship by writing a good essay

October 5, 2022 0

When reviewing applications for the more than 60 college scholarships offered by the National Eagle Scout Association, a clear trend emerged: What consistently tripped up otherwise excellent applications more than anything else was the essay.

#SeeSayDay is September 25. Here’s what you can do to Be Prepared

September 23, 2022 1

As leaders in our communities, it makes perfect sense for Scout leaders, parents and Scouts themselves to understand that we can all help if we know what to look for.

Why funding your fun with a BSA-licensed popcorn seller is the way to go

September 2, 2022 0

The BSA is proud to announce that it has renewed its licensing agreements with its three biggest popcorn sellers, meaning that Scout units across the country will continue to have the opportunity to raise funds with some of the organization’s most trusted partners.

BSA council-sponsored air show combines public outreach, Scout camporee and recruiting

July 27, 2022 0

The Chippewa Valley Air Show is a big deal. It takes months of planning before it even starts. It takes hours upon hours to set everything up. And in the midst of it all, there are more than 100 volunteers holding everything together, most of them Scouts and Scouters from the Chippewa Valley Council.

From the Scouting magazine archives: How to purify water in the wild

July 23, 2022 0

There are few places in North America where you can safely drink water from a lake or stream. And at about 8 pounds per gallon, clean water can be a real drag if you have to carry it far. The alternative is to go light and purify what you need.

How to nominate a Scout or Scouter for a BSA lifesaving award

July 20, 2022 1

The BSA’s lifesaving and meritorious action awards program is designed to recognize youth and adults who have performed an attempt to save a life, or to recognize notable acts of service that put into practice Scouting skills or ideals.

From the Scouting magazine archives: Building an emergency shelter

July 9, 2022 0

As evening approaches, you realize you’re not going to make it back to camp before dark. It would be dangerous to try to find your way, so you need to make shelter — fast. What do you do?

Keep your older Scouts engaged by safely increasing the intensity of their outdoor experiences

July 7, 2022 1

Your Scouts have been hiking. They’ve been to day camp. They’ve likely been on weekend campouts, and many of them might have been to summer camp. All of these are great, fun activities for Scouts who are just getting used to being outdoors. At some point, though, they’re going to be ready for more. So … what’s next?

Virtual roundtables: What they are; who they’re for; how they can help

June 24, 2022 0

Scouting roundtables — those monthly discussions hosted at the district or council level by volunteer roundtable commissioners — have been invaluable tools for BSA leaders for decades. Their purpose is to provide both the skills to

This troop gets all its adult leaders trained in first aid, and it paid off

May 30, 2022 1

“It’s good to have a lot of people out there who can help if they have to,” says Jay Fox, Scoutmaster and Red Cross-certified instructor. “Scouts should always Be Prepared, because, you know, stuff like this happens.”