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August-2024 Edition
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August-2024 Edition

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Properties

Campsite Safety and Hazard Trees

Camping offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, but it also comes with certain risks, particularly those posed by hazard trees. Understanding and mitigating these risks is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of all campers. No matter your role in Scouting, each of us plays a role in selecting, utilizing and even potentially maintaining safe camping locations.  

For Everyone 

What is a hazard tree? A hazard tree is any tree that poses a risk to people or property due to factors such as disease, structural defects, or proximity to high-use areas (including campsites). Recognizing the signs of a hazard tree, including dead branches, cracks in the trunk, or an abnormal lean is a first key step for each of us. Review this new resource from the National Conservation Subcommittee on “Recognizing and Mitigating Hazard Trees” with your council staff and volunteers.  

What can you do? Check out the list below and see how you can help Scouting be proactive in mitigating this risk.  

For District and Council Volunteers 

  • Remind units to avoid campsites with hazard trees. Share the section of the Guide to Safe Scouting that discuss hazard trees. Dead trees and dead limbs may fall at any time. Trees without needles, bark, or limbs may indicate structural defects. 
  • Remind Scouts and Scouters not use dead trees, hazard trees, or other unstable objects to support tents, canopies, or hammocks. 

For Camp Property Committees and Rangers 

  • Review this resource from the National Conservation Subcommittee on “Recognizing and Mitigating Hazard Trees” with your council staff and volunteers. Hold routine inspections of your camp properties. These inspections should be documented and reviewed regularly to ensure that any issues are promptly addressed. Leverage the Post Camp and Pre-Camp Checklists.  
  • Consult with a certified arborist or forestry professional to assess the severity of the risk and to recommend appropriate actions. In some cases, pruning or bracing may be sufficient, while in others, complete removal of the tree may be necessary. Recruit these individuals to serve on your Council Conservation Committee.  

For Short-Term Camp Administrators and Long-Term Camp Leadership 

  • Remind units participating at your short-term camp events to assess their camping area for hazard trees that could impact them.  
  • Educate campers and volunteers about the dangers of hazard trees, and you could include this information in your short-term camp’s orientation meetings or planning guides. 
  • Remind campers to report any observed hazard trees to camp leadership.  

Finally, it is important to have a response plan in place in the event that a hazard tree does cause an incident. This plan should include procedures for providing first aid, contacting emergency services, and securing the affected area to prevent further injury (this could also be included in your emergency procedures per NCAP AO-805). Regular drills and staff training can ensure that everyone is prepared to act quickly and effectively if necessary.  

By adhering to these best practices and leveraging the resources available, we can create a safer environment for all campers. Regular inspections, proactive management, comprehensive education, and a well-prepared response plan are key components of effective hazard tree safety. Ensuring these measures are in place will help protect both people and property, allowing everyone to enjoy the great outdoors with peace of mind. 

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NCAPProperties

Continuing Education for Camp Rangers: Consider OSHA!

Investing in professional development is critical for every Scouting employee, including camp rangers. It enables each of us to stay current with the latest advancements, trends, and best practices in our roles supporting camp facilities. It is so crucial to ensure that camp rangers receive continuing education that the NCAP standards require 12 hours of annual continuing education (see NCAP standard SQ-404.B.2). Reminder, your staff leader must approve your continuing education plan.  

As you wrap up the summer camp season, fall can be a perfect time to ensure that you have completed your camp ranger annual continuing education. An area not always well understood are the requirements of OSHA. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a federal agency dedicated to ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for employees across various industries.  

Established in 1970, OSHA sets and enforces standards, provides training, outreach, education, and assistance to maintain workplace safety. For camp rangers, understanding and adhering to OSHA regulations is crucial to protect staff and campers, prevent accidents, and ensure compliance with federal laws. Note that some states have state specific OSHA so research your state to confirm.  

Common areas of concern include proper storage and handling of chemicals, maintenance and inspection of machinery and tools, electrical safety, and emergency preparedness. It’s essential to comply with OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to ensure that all hazardous chemicals are correctly labeled and that Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are accessible to all employees. Regular maintenance and safety checks of equipment such as lawnmowers, power tools, and HVAC systems are also necessary to prevent accidents. Any of this sound familiar? (see NCAP FA-700 facility standards!) 

So what OSHA training is available?  Check out these options below and consider adding them to your continuing education plan.

  • Consider starting with OSHA #7500—Introduction to Safety and Health Management. 

Be sure to document your training so you can include the information in your 2025 NCAP assessment materials. Enjoy your course and I look forward to hearing what you learned! Questions? Reach out to outdoorprograms@scouting.org.  

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Camping

Cub Scout Camping Program and Policy Updates

On June 1st, Cub Scouting unveiled eagerly awaited updates, bringing new energy and opportunities for Cub Scouts to explore the great outdoors. The updated Cub Scout program has a significant new number of outdoor focused adventures that can be a great addition to your district or council event.

Several updates were made to the camping required and elective adventures that Cub Scouts at all ranks can participate in. The opportunity to camp outdoors has consistently been the number one reason Cub Scouts join the Scouting program! The updated Cub Scout program continues to offer camping at every rank.  So first, how can you assist packs in earning these new adventures? 

  • Ensure packs know their Cub Scouts may be eligible for the summertime elective adventure. Like the previous “Summertime Pack Award”, these new “Summertime Fun” elective adventures encourage a Cub Scout to participate in an activity each month of the summer. Each Scout can earn the elective based on their individual participation. (Reminder Lion Scouts did not join until kindergarten started this fall so incoming kindergarten Lion Scouts cannot earn this elective adventure until the conclusion of their kindergarten school year.) Touch base with your packs this fall and see if they have Scouts who earned this elective!
  • Host a family camp weekend for your district or council. Reminder these events are “short-term camps” and must operate under the National Camp Accreditation Program (NCAP) standards.  This will help packs have a successful camping experience by leveraging your council property and experience program staff and volunteers. 
  • Facilitate BALOO training courses. A new syllabus will launch in September – take advantage of this updated material to encourage more Cub Scout leaders to experience this hands-on training. 

In addition to program changes, several updates were made to the Guide to Safe Scouting regarding Cub Scout camping. These changes specifically impact Webelos (4th grade) and Arrow of Light Scouts (5th grade) dens. The complete policy (including details like required BALOO training etc) can be viewed online HERE but below are a few key parts: 

  • Effective June 1, 2024, Webelos is the designated program for 4th graders and Arrow of Light is the designated program for 5th graders.  As such, the Arrow of Light program is no longer combined with the Webelos program and the purpose of Webelos (4th grade) is no longer to prepare Cub Scouts to join Scouts BSA. The purpose of the Arrow of Light program is to prepare for Arrow of Light Scouts to join a Scouts BSA troop.  Therefore, the camping policies for these two age groups have officially been separated. Understanding that these two dens have officially separated is critical to determining how each den can camp and with whom. This separation will also be showcased on the upcoming update to the Age Appropriate Guidelines Chart.
  • Both Webelos and Arrow of Light dens can still camp as a den. Reminder, only these two den types can camp as dens (other Cub Scout ranks can camp as part of a pack coordinated or at a council/district camping event). Webelos and Arrow of Light den campouts are for these two ranks alone – “tagalong” other age Cub Scouts or siblings are not allowed on den campouts. 
  • Webelos can camp as a den or with their pack but cannot camp with a Scouts BSA troop either at a troop or district/council event. This opportunity will become available when they become Arrow of Light Scouts and is even part of one of the required Arrow of Light adventures. 
    • Be sure to consider this as you plan legacy camporees or other Scouts BSA events where you may have invited all “Webelos” – now these camporees or other Scouts BSA events are no longer for Webelos but exclusively a potential opportunity for Arrow of Light Scouts.
  • Arrow of Light Scouts can participate and camp at a unit coordinated campout with a Scouts BSA troop they are eligible to join. They must attend as an Arrow of Light den/patrol under the supervision of two deep leadership from their Arrow of Light den/patrol or pack.
  • Arrow of Light Scouts can also participate at a Scouts BSA “camporee” (council coordinated, short-term camp, see NCAP SA-001) during the day and/or overnight as either a member of their den (with the den’s two deep leadership) or with their parent(s) or legal guardian(s) if the local council coordinates two deep leadership per NCAP Standard HS-502.

Be sure to read the entire section in the Guide to Safe Scouting so you can help your Cub Scout packs and their older dens have a successful camping experience this fall and into next year. The newly updated Cub Scout program is a great way to engage more Scouts outdoors! Don’t miss the chance to incorporate camping into your year-round district/council events. Questions, 

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Camping

Fall Fun at Your District and Council Events: Pumpkin Carving and More

During seasonal fall events, carving pumpkins at a Scouting event can be a fun and safe activity for youth. With the right tools and adult supervision this activity brings a unique activity that Scouts and families can do together. Here’s a guide on safe pumpkin carving, tools needed, and five design ideas. (You could even use this information to help fill out a Program Hazard Analysis before the event.)

But first lets highlight the newly updated Cub Scout program knife safety elective adventures!

Knife Safety 

One of the highlights of the Cub Scout experience has been the Bear Claws Adventure and the Whittling Chip program where Cub Scouts are introduced to pocketknife safety. The updated Cub Scouting program now includes elective adventures centered around knife safety for Bears, Webelos and Arrow of Light!  In the updated program, to use a knife in Cub Scouting, the Cub Scout must first complete the knife safety Adventure for their rank, even if they earned the knife safety adventure in a previous rank.  This replaces the Whittling Chip and introduces continuous certification for the use of a knife. 

Ok back to pumpkin carving…

Tools Needed: 

  1. Pumpkin carving kit: These kits typically include a variety of tools such as small saws, scoops, and poking tools designed specifically for pumpkin carving. 
  2. Markers or pens: For drawing the design onto the pumpkin before carving. 
  3. Newspaper or a messy mat: To cover your work surface and make clean-up easier. 
  4. Battery-operated LED candles or lights: To safely light up the carved pumpkin without using an open flame. 

 Safe Pumpkin Carving Tips: 

  • Qualified adult supervision: Ensure that younger Scouts (Cub Scouts) have active adult supervision throughout the carving process. 
  • Use appropriate tools: Avoid using sharp knives or tools not meant for pumpkin carving, as they can be dangerous.  Camping or folding knives are not recommended. Scouts from Bear rank and up can utilize a knife. You could even incorporate the knife safety Cub Scout elective adventures into your weekend event program plan.
  • Stabilize the pumpkin: Place the pumpkin on a flat, stable surface to prevent it from rolling while carving. 
  • Safety Circle:  With the Safety Circle method, there’s almost no way you could accidentally cut anyone else, which is the essence of blade safety! Assign this program to an area that has enough space to safely accommodate the biggest group. 
  • Lighting: Use battery-operated LED lights instead of candles to avoid fire hazards. 
  • Scooping out the pumpkin: Use a pumpkin scoop or spoon to remove seeds and pulp, rather than hands or sharp objects. 

Bonus point – Consider the ecological impacts when determining where to dispose of your pumpkins. Speaking of pumpkin disposal, as a reminder “Pumpkin Chunking” is not an approved activity in Scouting.

Design Ideas: 

Here are a few pumpkin carving design ideas suitable for different age groups: 

Classic Jack-o’-Lantern: 

  • Design: Traditional face with triangle eyes and a toothy smile. 
  • Difficulty: Easy for all age groups. 
  • Tips: Start with a simple design to get comfortable with carving.

Spooky Cat: 

  • Design: Carve out a silhouette of a cat with arched back and whiskers. 
  • Difficulty: Moderate. 
  • Tips: Use smaller carving tools for detailing the cat’s features. 

 Funny Monster: 

  • Design: Create a goofy, whimsical monster face with multiple eyes and a big grin. 
  • Difficulty: Moderate. 
  • Tips: Experiment with different facial features and expressions. 

 Camp Logos/Theme: 

  • Have camp logo or event theme templates that scouts can trace on a pumpkin. 
  • Difficulty: Moderate 
  • Tips: Have enough copies of the template to pass out for Scouts to use. 

These designs can be adjusted based on the age and skill level of the youth participants. Encourage creativity and have fun with the carving process! 

 

Resource Links: 

Scouts Life article: https://scoutlife.org/about-scouts/cub-hub/58847/halloweenpumpkins/ 

Knife Safety Link:  https://stg.scouting.org/program-updates/knife-safety/ 

Totin’ Chip Link:  https://stg.scouting.org/awards/awards-central/totin-chip/ 

Safety Moment – Safe Scouting:  https://stg.scouting.org/health-and-safety/safety-moments/safe-scouting/ 

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NCAP

Making Certain That Everyone is O.K. – Suicide Prevention Month

Camps are designed to be a place for fun, adventure, and personal growth. Unfortunately it is also a time when mental health concerns can arise. As camp leaders, unit leaders, and staff, it is essential to be equipped with the knowledge and resources to support campers and staff who may be struggling. We are not mental health professionals, but we can all watch and see if challenges arise – not just during summer camp but throughout the entire year. 

Why is this important? Mental issues are serious and can affect individuals of all ages, including children and teenagers.  Suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10-24. September is Suicide Prevention Month, a critical time to focus on raising awareness and providing support for those at risk. As adult volunteers in Scouting, it is essential to be equipped with the right resources and knowledge to support the well-being of the Scouts. One key resource is the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, available 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255. This lifeline offers free and confidential support, prevention and crisis resources for individuals in distress, and best practices for those providing assistance. Additionally, the Crisis Text Line is available 24/7 by texting “HELLO” to 741741, connecting individuals with trained crisis counselors.

So, what can I do to help you might ask? 

  1. Post resource numbers like the ones listed above around your camp properties, even during events this fall and winter. 
  2. Encourage older Scouts BSA, Sea Scouts and Venturing members to view the Personal Safety Awareness Video focused on Suicide Prevention. You can access the video and discussion guide here. You could even host a camp staff meeting and use this as the topic. 
  3. We all need to make certain that all camp staff are trained in recognizing the warning signs. Staff need to know how to respond to a camper in crisis, and the importance of seeking help from mental health professionals.  Make certain that your camp has a plan (NCAP Recommended Practice 551), even as part of short-term camps this fall and winter. 
  4. Promote campers to the importance of self-care practices, such as mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and healthy coping mechanisms. Encourage physical activity, time outdoors, and social connections as ways to improve mental well-being. Not only promote this, but also lead by example.  Staff and unit leaders need to set an example by taking care of themselves. 
  5. Encourage camp staff and volunteers to take “Mental Health First Aid” or other similar training before summer camp next year. The “off-season” is a great time to take these important trainings. 

Remember, we are not mental health experts and we cannot solve every issue, but showing someone that we care about them can make a difference.  

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Range & Target Activities

Q and A: September 1st Range and Target Activities Program Updates

The Range and Target Activities (Shooting Sports) currently offered by Scouting America are highly complex, requiring knowledgeable supervision, qualified instruction, and strict adherence to standard operating procedures. The following Q&A reviews upcoming September 1st program adjustments that aim to simplify these programs while ensuring safety standards are met. Prior to reviewing these FAQs, please review the upcoming changes listed HERE in the Guide to Safe Scouting. 

Q: Why are range and target activities (shooting sports) part of Scouting’s programs? 

A: Range and target activities provide Scouting the opportunity to instruct critical safe firearm handling to all age groups while also providing an opportunity for a Scout to learn self-discipline, concentration, mental discipline, self-reliance, self-esteem, problem-solving and responsibility. Teaching safe firearm handling includes conversations such as “What happens when you see a gun? Never touch the gun, leave it where it is, and tell an adult right away.” Scouting is committed to teaching youth how to be safe around firearms, whether at home, in their neighborhoods, or around the community. 

Q: Why is Scouting updating its range and target activities (shooting sports programs) effective 9/1/2024? 

A: With a focus on safety and delivery of a quality program, these program adjustments aim to simplify and further standardize range and target activities, thus enhancing the overall experience for Scouts and Scouters alike. 

Q: Why is the name of shooting sports programs changing to Range & Target Activities? 

A: This new name reflects both where these activities take place (on established ranges) and what these activities are. 

Q: Starting in September, besides a nationally authorized camp property’s range, Scouts can participate in firearms programs on a commercial range. How will the BSA define a commercial firearm range? 

A: A commercial firearm range is a supervised facility that offers a controlled environment for safe firearm practice. It will provide shooting lanes, targets, and may offer equipment rentals and training in safe firearm handling and marksmanship. Standard operating procedures are required for each firearm type used on-site.  Scouting’s range and target activities must follow all of Scouting’s range and target activities policies or range standard operating procedures that are equivalently stringent, including no variation from Scouting’s limitations on firearms used. These ranges may be operated by a licensed business, a government entity or non-profit. 

Q: And also, what is a nationally authorized camp property? 

A: A national authorized camp property is defined by the National Camp Accreditation Program standards in SA-001. This definition is “A camp property includes any property over which a BSA council exercises long-term control that is made available to BSA units or individuals for use in BSA-branded program activities.”  For full information on what is a nationally authorized camp property, please review the entire NCAP standard SA-001. 

Q: My Scouts BSA troop wants to conduct a weekend activity focused on the Rifle Shooting merit badge, can we still host this event after September 1, 2024? 

A: Yes. Scouts BSA troops can offer these activities with the required supervision certifications indicated in the BSA Shooting Sports Manual at either a nationally authorized camp property range(s) or at a commercial firearm range. Reminder- your unit must also have someone who has completed the online Range Activity SAFEty training. This trained adult leader must be present at the range. Note this training does not replace the requirements for certified NRA firearms instructors and range safety officers. This training will be available beginning 9/1/2024. 

Q: There is a new Range Activity SAFEty training?? 

A: Yes. On September 1, 2024 this training will be available for unit leaders to take on My.Scouting (the same place you can take Youth Protection training online etc). Less than 40 minutes, this online training will help Scout leaders be prepared to successfully offer these programs at the unit level. 

Q: Our Venturing crew is interested in participating in a pistol program. Is it still possible for us to do so? 

A: Yes, Venturing crews participate in the NRA FIRST Steps Pistol Orientation at an accredited camp program (day camp, short-term camp, long-term camp) or a council organized one day event. Reminder, effective 9/1/2024, unit-level sponsored/planned Venturing and Sea Scouting pistol programs are prohibited. This program will also be available for older Scouts BSA youth.

Q: How does Scouting define “firearm”? 

A: Firearms include pellet rifles, airsoft (any type), rifles, pistols, shotguns, and muzzle loading rifles and shotguns. While Scouting does not define a BB gun or “BB device” as a firearm, some states, counties, or jurisdictions may regulate BB guns as firearms, depending on their design and capabilities. Councils must review and follow any local regulations before conducting programs. 

 

If planning an upcoming event or outing for your unit or council involving range & target activities, please remember to visit Scouting.org on September 1st to review the new National Range & Target Activities Manual and any revisions to the Guide to Safe Scouting.   

Still have questions?  We invite you to watch a recording of our Range and Target Activities Program Updates (a Venturing focus but all levels are reviewed) webinar that premiered on July 10.  You may also attend an additional, Outdoor Program & Properties Team sponsored, webinar on August 15th.  The links for both the recording and to register for the upcoming webinar may be found below.   

Resources: 

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National Jamboree

The 2026 National Jamboree is Set to ELEVATE Scouting

The next National Jamboree will be held July 22-31, 2026, at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in Glen Jean, WV. In case you have not heard, the theme is ELEVATE and this event will ELEVATE your Scouting and will be a life changing experience not just for your Scouts but for you as well. 

So what is a Jamboree? It is Scouting’s premiere event where we gather with over 10,000 Scouts and Scouters who come together to celebrate the spirit of Scouting. The Jamboree is a life-changing experience for both youth and adults who attend. The memories and experiences they have last a lifetime. Friends that are made become lifelong companions and the shared experiences are talked about around campfires for years to come.  

So you don’t want to miss out on this opportunity as it only comes around every few years. If you miss this one the next one won’t be until 2029.  

Here are a few keys to ELEVATE your Jamboree knowledge.  

  1. ELEVATE your community and learn that Scouting is bigger than just my unit. We plan to have an arena show (or two) to gather the entire Jamboree together to celebrate Scouting and have a great time. it is a sight to see everyone together and to help youth to understand that Scouting is bigger than just my unit, district or council. Scouting is all of us and we will showcase this when we bring everyone together.  
  1. ELEVATE your Scouts by helping them come to the Jamboree! The Jamboree, like most things in Scouting, is only successful when we all work together. We need you to help promote the Jamboree to your unit, your district, your council and to your friends. We need you to help fill contingents of youth, so they do not miss this once in a lifetime event. Most Scouts will only have one opportunity to experience a Jamboree as a youth, so make sure that they don’t miss out.  
  1. ELEVATE your Scouting Journey! The Jamboree relies on great volunteers to help us in all aspects of the event. We need people to run programs, help in administration, operations and logistics to name a few. There is a job for you! Like other parts of Scouting if there is something you like to do, you can do it at the Jamboree. So look to be a part of the largest “staff” in Scouting.  
  1. ELEVATE your reach. If you are looking for some resources to help you get the word out, make sure to check out the Brand Center. Here you will find some social media ready photos and videos that you can share. You will also find the Jamboree “ELEVATE” theme logo and brand guidance. Click on this link to take you straight to the Jamboree resources. https://scouting.webdamdb.com/bp/#/folder/13228711/. Go take a look now at the great images, and videos and share a couple on your social channels… I’ll wait…  
  1. ELEVATE your awareness. Now that you have seen (and shared) the videos, you are asking “How do I sign up?” Registration will open this fall, but until then keep up to date by signing up to receive notifications from us by visiting www.jamboree.scouting.org. Here you will find all the information you need about the Jamboree. Bookmark the site as this will be your main source of information for all things Jamboree. If you did not get a chance to see it, you should also check out the “Trek on Tuesday” where despite some technical difficulties, we shared some great information about the Jamboree. You can find that discussion here. – https://www.youtube.com/live/WOOKLGAp2Cg 

The National Jamboree is Scouting premiere event so you definitely do not want to miss it. Make your plans now to participate as a contingent member or on the Jamboree Service Team (Staff). This will be our first Jamboree as Scouting America and you can’t say you have been to every Scouting America Jamboree if you miss the first one! Keep watching for more information and to get signed up. 

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Fishing

The Complete Angler Recognition is a great opportunity for older Scouts 

The Scouting America Complete Angler Award honors Scouts who earn all three fishing-related merit badges: Fishing, Fly-Fishing, and Fish & Wildlife Management. 

Fishing Merit Badge was one of the original merit badges and over two million have earned it. In a recent Boys’ Life survey, fishing placed 4th overall as the preferred outdoor activity, surpassed only by camping, swimming and bicycling. What better way to keep older Scouts involved than by expanding on this trend. 

After completing the Complete Angler Recognition, these older Scouts can become mentors for younger Scouts, sharing their knowledge and helping others to enjoy a positive fishing experience.   

To become eligible for the award, earn these three merit badges: Fishing, Fly-Fishing, and Fish and Wildlife Management. 

Then complete one or more of the following projects: 

  • Teach a Fishing or Fly-Fishing merit badge skill to your troop, crew or team as part of a unit program activity.  
  • Help instruct Cub Scouts on fishing skills or fishery management as part of a Cub Scout meeting or outing.  
  • Participate in a local fishing derby or tournament, either a Scouting or Community event.  
  • Complete a conservation project that will benefit a local fishery. 

Upon completion, this recognition is available for order at your local Scout shop.  

Resources: 
Complete Angler Recognition Form 
https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/Outdoor%20Program/pdf/Complete_Angler_Recognition.pdf 

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CampingNCAP

The Not-so-Secret Keys to Camp Staff Year-Round Engagement

As camp begins to wind down for most of us and we begin to think about closing procedures and closing inventories, one thing we need to focus on is our camp staff. 

Camp staff can be some of the best and most vocal advocates for our camps and can be the best promoters of our camping programs. So how do we keep them engaged and involved year-round? And how can we leverage the feelings and energy they possess now to springboard us into the next season? Let’s explore some “secrets” to keeping camp staff involved and engaged. 

  1. Do an inventory of staff before they leave camp. Have you asked them if they plan to return next season? It is not too soon to begin collecting applications and commitments now. Especially for those staff whom you know you are going to build upon for the next season. If you didn’t ask before they left, send them an email now! Tell them THANKS and encourage them to apply.
  2. What is your plan for next season? Have you developed your needs list today? Do you know of a staff member who you will need to replace? Have you looked toward your “bench” to see who is the next staff member that you want to develop and move into a leadership role? Get them committed today and offer them opportunities to get some additional training that will benefit you and your camp. 
  3. Invite them to help you on a year-round basis. Most of our camps offer some programs on a weekend during the rest of the year and not just summer camp season. While some of our staff are away at school, but do they have your calendar of events for when they are home on a break or just want to get away from campus for a weekend? Share your program calendar and weekend needs. Several of our staff live close to camp and would love a way to connect with camp during the “off season” (and of course would not turn down a little cash to come out for a weekend and help run some of your activities). While you may not be able to pay, maybe you can work out some other option for them to come and help. Free food or some gas money go a long way to getting some help. BONUS: This is a part of NCAP standard RP-851.  
  4. Have you invited them to visit or work for another camp? WAIT WHAT? You want me to send my staff to someone else? YES! One great way to show your staff you care about them and want the best for them is to help them earn some extra dollars during the summer. If you can’t offer a full summer season, connect them with another camp that starts when yours ends so that they can use those skills to help someone else. While this sounds counterintuitive, it will help them build loyalty to you and your camp as someone who cares about them and wants the best for them.  
  5. Help them with a resume. Have you spoken to your staff about the marketable skills that they learn on camp staff? Set a time to meet with your staff and help them develop a resume stating the leadership opportunity they had or the budget management as a part of their role. Maybe they were in charge or inventory controls or cash handling. These skills translate to jobs outside of camp. Make sure they have you listed as a reference as well! For some great resources on this visit the American Camp Association (ACA) Project Real Job website. Here you will find some resources to help you and them in the process.  
  6. Consider attending the ACA virtual staffing summit in October. This virtual event will help you get some practical solutions around addressing staffing shortages, and ways to recruit staff and best practices for staff retention. For information and to register visit the 2024 ACA staffing summit website. 
  7. Host some events. There is no better way to keep the enthusiasm and camaraderie of camp going than to get the staff back together. Can you host a holiday party or a Labor Day reunion? Can you do something in the spring to help get camp ready or a work day at camp. The key is to have several opportunities to engage and keep them talking about camp year-round. This needs to be more than just when you send them the application for 2025.  Send them a calendar of events so they can work it into their busy schedules now.
  8. Engage your alumni committee to host a networking event. Many of your camp staff alumni may be business leaders in your community. Reach out to them to host a networking event for your camp staff members. This is a great way for camp staff to connect with one another, but also to learn more about the industry they may want to be a part of. (BONUS – it keeps your past staff members involved as well).  
  9. Begin promotion now. Once you take inventory of your camp needs, begin working now to promote these jobs and get on the recruiting trail. Connect with your staff who are in clubs at school and seek opportunities to meet those clubs and members. Share your job postings on the Scoutlife Jobs posting page.  
  10. Be creative. You know your staff best. What can you do to keep in contact with them? Send a birthday card or special occasion card or simply a note to say you are thinking about them during exam time or the big game. Relationships are the key to keeping them and keeping them engaged. 

Our camp staff are our greatest resource, and like all resources, they require care and maintenance to achieve the best results. Hope you can find some of these useful and that you can keep your staff engaged year-round, fostering a committed and enthusiastic team ready for the next camp season. Let’s keep our camp staff connected, to help them and camp be successful. Have an idea to share? Email it to outdoorprograms@scouting.org and we will share it in future articles on this subject!

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Bray Barnes

Director, Global Security Innovative
Strategies

Bray Barnes is a recipient of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award, Silver
Beaver, Silver Antelope, Silver Buffalo, and Learning for Life Distinguished
Service Award. He received the Messengers of Peace Hero award from
the royal family of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and he’s a life member of
the 101st Airborne Association and Vietnam Veterans Association. Barnes
serves as a senior fellow for the Global Federation of Competitiveness
Councils, a nonpartisan network of corporate CEOs, university presidents, and
national laboratory directors. He has also served as a senior executive for the
U.S. Department of Homeland Security, leading the first-responder program
and has two U.S. presidential appointments

David Alexander

Managing Member Calje

David Alexander is a Baden-Powell Fellow, Summit Bechtel Reserve philanthropist, and recipient of the Silver Buffalo and Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. He is the founder of Caljet, one of the largest independent motor fuels terminals in the U.S. He has served the Arizona Petroleum Marketers Association, Teen Lifeline, and American Heart Association. A triathlete who has completed hundreds of races, Alexander has also mentored the women’s triathlon team at Arizona State University.

Glenn Adams

President, CEO & Managing Director
Stonetex Oil Corp.

Glenn Adams is a recipient of the Silver Beaver, Silver Antelope, Silver Buffalo, and Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. He is the former president of the National Eagle Scout Association and established the Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams National Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award. He has more than 40 years of experience in the oil, gas, and energy fields, including serving as a president, owner, and CEO. Adams has also received multiple service awards from the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers.