News

Because skills we learn in Scouting—whether through a merit badge or on the Trail to First Class—can forever shape our lives, a story series about “The Merit Badge That Changed My Life” seems appropriate.

From nuclear science to blacksmithing, hundreds of Scouts gathered in Grand Island, Nebraska for an action-packed weekend of learning, exploring, and connecting!

Tim and Crystal Mueller, adult volunteers from Troop 2119 in Sharpsburg, Maryland, were on their way to the Shenandoah Area Council’s popcorn sales kickoff event when they witnessed a terrifying multicar accident unfold on the road in front of them.

Nick Ulrich’s impact hasn’t gone unnoticed. He was recently honored with the first-ever Heart of Aurora Award, recognizing his decades of dedication to local youth and veterans.

Jeffrey Bozanic, Ph.D., is Scouting Alumni’s new Alumni Training Lead. Dr. Jeff Bozanic is a research scientist, underwater explorer, and lifelong member of Scouting America.

Andrew Albert of East New Market, Maryland, knows the lifesaving power of blood donation—because it saved his own life. Born with a rare genetic disorder (XLP), Andrew underwent a bone marrow transplant and received lifesaving blood products as a child.

Years after the devastating 2018 Ute Park Fire scorched over 26,000 acres in Philmont Scout Ranch, efforts to restore the forest are well underway.

Scouting America is proud to debut two heartfelt new commercials featuring NFL star and official Scouting America spokesperson David Montgomery, airing nationwide this fall on Hulu, Disney+, ESPN+, and YouTube TV. In each spot, Montgomery reflects on the experiences that helped shape him—from his days as a Scout to his career in professional football.

On June 7, 2025, the pine-covered shores of Lake Murray echoed once again with the voices of Scouts, Scouters, and alumni as nearly 150 current and former staff members gathered at Camp Barstow for a memorable Camp Staff Reunion.

A man visiting Mackinac Island is alive today thanks to the quick actions of a nurse, a Scout, and a scout leader who jumped into action during a terrifying moment near Fort Mackinac.

In 2016, the world was introduced to Robby Heil — the heart of the Novi High School football team and its beloved hydration manager. With his signature smile and unwavering spirit, Robby’s story, shared by World News Tonight, touched millions across the nation.

A recent Gallup poll revealing that 1 in 4 young men in the U.S. experience daily loneliness is a wake-up call — and an opportunity for those who know the power of Scouting to make a real difference.