by Mike Matzinger
Scouting America is doubling down on volunteer support to drive membership growth.
Sean Magennis, EVP of Membership Engagement at Scouting America, is leading a strategy aimed at reaching 2 million members in the next decade by focusing on both retention and recruitment. The approach centers on the EDGE method, which stands for explain, demonstrate, guide, enable. The goal is to help volunteers learn, lead, and mentor with confidence.
Volunteers will receive clearer guidance, training, and practical tools to simplify recruitment, run effective meetings, and create meaningful onboarding experiences. Peer to peer learning and district mentorship will help new leaders apply what they learn quickly. Recognition, communication, and feedback systems are also being strengthened to support and motivate volunteers.
Short term goals target 1.1 million members within the next three years. Strategies include identifying high potential communities, expanding multicultural initiatives, rebuilding community partnerships, and highlighting the unique value of Scouting in character development, leadership, and outdoor adventure.
Scouting alumni also have an important role to play in this growth. Former Scouts and volunteers can help by reconnecting with their local units, sharing their Scouting stories, mentoring new leaders, volunteering for short term roles, and helping introduce families to the program. Alumni networks can open doors to new community partnerships, schools, and organizations that can help expand Scouting’s reach.
Magennis emphasizes that growth is not just about numbers. It is about giving more young people access to life changing Scouting experiences while keeping volunteering meaningful and rewarding.