Why should families give to Friends of Scouting for Boy Scouts of America?
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Friends of Scouting (FOS) is a fundraising campaign conducted by local Boy Scouts of America (BSA) councils to support their operating expenses and programs. Families are encouraged to contribute to Friends of Scouting for several reasons:
  1. Financial Support for Council Operations: Friends of Scouting helps cover the day-to-day operating expenses of the local BSA council. This includes maintaining facilities, providing training for leaders, supporting camps, and organizing events. Contributions go towards ensuring the overall health and effectiveness of the Scouting program in the community.

  2. Program Enhancement: FOS funds can be used to enhance and expand Scouting programs. This may include developing new initiatives, offering additional training opportunities, and improving existing programs to better serve the needs and interests of youth members.

  3. Scholarships and Financial Assistance: Friends of Scouting contributions can be used to provide scholarships and financial assistance to families who may face economic challenges. This helps ensure that all young people, regardless of their financial situation, have the opportunity to participate in Scouting.

  4. Maintaining Camps and Facilities: Scouting often involves outdoor experiences, and many councils operate camps and facilities for these purposes. FOS funds may be allocated to maintain and improve these camps, providing safe and enjoyable environments for Scouts to learn and grow.

  5. Equipment and Resources: Friends of Scouting helps provide necessary equipment and resources for Scouting activities. This includes items such as camping gear, training materials, and educational resources that contribute to a comprehensive and impactful Scouting experience.

  6. Community Impact: Supporting Friends of Scouting is a way for families to contribute to the positive impact of Scouting in their community. By giving, families help ensure that the values and skills instilled in Scouts continue to benefit local youth and communities.

  7. Long-Term Sustainability: Regular contributions to Friends of Scouting contribute to the long-term sustainability of the Scouting program. Financial support from families helps maintain the organization’s stability and ensures that Scouting remains available for future generations.

In summary, contributing to Friends of Scouting is a way for families to invest in the success and sustainability of the Boy Scouts of America at the local level. It helps provide the resources needed to offer quality programs, maintain facilities, and ensure that Scouting continues to positively impact the lives of youth in the community.

Joel Holst is a longtime Scouter and former North Shore District Chair.  He enjoys playing with AI platform Chat GPT3.5 to see what it says about scouting. His membershp motto is “ABC – Always Be ‘Cruiting”.

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