What impacts commissioner recruiting and retention? Whether you are looking for new ideas on organizing your commissioner teams, finding the commissioner knots and awards, identifying and inviting new commissioners, or planning commissioner events; you are in the right place.
Seeking and inviting volunteers to be commissioners is key to keeping Scouting strong and successful. The best way to find new commissioners is by sharing the impact of Scouting and showing how individuals can make a difference. Personal invitations, clear roles, and flexible opportunities make it easier for people to get involved. When new commissioners feel welcomed, supported, and appreciated, they are more likely to stay and grow with the program. Strong recruitment leads to a thriving, engaged unit service team that helps Scouting flourish.
Job Descriptions
Forms
- Recruiting plan- template
- Recruiting plan – sample
- Making the ask – template
- Making the ask – sample
Guides
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- The Role of Recruiting
- It Starts with a Vision
- Identifying Needs
- Identifying Candidates
- Screening for Passion and Potential
- The Essential Characteristic
- Where to Look
- Making the Ask
- What Not to Do
- Building and Working a Recruiting Plan
- Resources
- DOWNLOAD
Keeping commissioners engaged as volunteers helps Scouting units grow and make a bigger impact. When commissioners stay involved, less time is spent training new helpers, allowing more focus on supporting units. Experienced volunteers understand Scouting traditions, build strong connections, and inspire others to follow in their footsteps. A committed team strengthens relationships and fosters a supportive, fun community. Dedicated commissioners help Scouting thrive for years to come!
Organizing Commissioner Teams
Well-organized commissioner teams support local Scout units by matching their specific needs to a tailored approach to unit service. A district or council can organize its commissioners in many ways to best support its local needs. There is no one-size-fits-all approach that works nationwide, but a good commissioner organization helps units get the support they need when they need it. The Organizing Commissioner Teams guide and associated Understanding Your District resource are designed to enable exploration of various models that could work for your specific situation.
- Organizing Commissioner Teams *NEW*
- Understanding Your District *NEW*
- Organizing Effective Commissioner Events for Scouting America *NEW*
Commissioning in Scouting
A commission is an authorization to serve. In Scouting, only professional staff and commissioners are eligible for commissioning, symbolizing their commitment. Commissioners serve one-year terms, and commissioning ceremonies publicly affirm their service. These ceremonies help recognize achievements, plan for the future, and improve retention.
The Commissioner Awards & Recognition program honors all commissioners by establishing clear criteria and providing easy access to awards and tracking.
Categories & Classifications:
- Commitment to Serve, Personal Development, Impact on Scouting
- Selection-based (appointed), Application-based (self-applied), Nomination-based (peer-recognized)
Why Recognition Matters
Recognition sets goals, celebrates achievements, and inspires others. It defines success, supports recruitment and retention, and strengthens Scouting units.
Requirements, Progress Records & Certificates
Forms for tracking progress and nominations are available in a single downloadable PDF. Certificates can be completed online and printed on standard or high-quality paper for framing.
