The Boy Scouts of America is a membership organization. Scouting has served more than 150 million young people since William D. Boyce brought the program to America. We need to continually seek innovative methods that will attract an increasing number of young people from all markets.

 

The first 18 years of my Scouting career were devoted to field operations assignments. I am proud of the fact for 18 consecutive years unit growth was achieved while in 17 of 18 years youth membership growth was achieved. My membership growth record was achieved due to a number of factors:

 

Effective District and Council volunteer teams were developed.

 

Extensive market analysis helped to identify the neighborhoods that needed emphasis.

 

Unit, District, and Council teams were thoroughly trained in the effective methods of youth and adult recruitment.

 

Good working relationships were developed with school districts, principals, and parent teacher groups throughout the year.

School Nights to join Scouting became effective tools to counteract potential obstacles such as school access, busing, and magnet school concepts.

 

Fast Start and Basic Leader Training was regularly available.

 

New Den Leaders would receive program guides within one week of recruitment.

 

Effective youth recruitment is a multi stepped process. This includes leaders training, engagement of families and community resources, school relationships and marketing strategies.

 

Effective membership growth in our All Market demographic involves a multi phased strategy. Elements of an effective strategy include: use of community advisory groups, strong relations with schools, community centers, churches, and other youth serving organizations. Our effective strategy must also include understanding the culture of each element of all market segments, the best method to reach the youth so they can benefit from Scouting.