Developing leadership and cooperation are some of our goals. Troop 61 is a boy-run troop, because this is the best
way to teach leadership. The boys plan the programs and run the activities to the best of their ability. The adult leaders
are there to advise and guide the boys with their endeavors.
The Boy Scout advancement program is subtle. It places a series of challenges in front of a Scout in a manner that is fun and educational. As Scouts meet these challenges, they achieve the aims of Boy Scouting. The Scout advances and grows in the Boy Scout phase of the program in the same way a plant grows by receiving nourishment in the right environment. The job with adults concerned with advancement is to provide the right environment. One of the greatest needs of young men is confidence. There are three kinds of confidence that young men need: in themselves, in peers, and in leaders.
Educators and counselors agree that the best way to build confidence is through measurement. Self-confidence is developed by measuring up to a challenge or a standard. Peer confidence develops when the same measuring system is used for everyone -- when all must meet the same challenge to receive equal recognition. Confidence in leaders comes about when there is consistency in measuring -- when leaders use a single standard of fairness. No council, district, unit, or individual has the authority to add to or subtract from any advancement requirement. A Boy Scout badge recognizes what a young man is able to do; it is not a reward for what he has done. Standards for joining a Boy Scout troop and for advancement are listed in the latest printing of the Boy Scout Handbook and in the current Boy Scout Requirements book. Advancement accommodates the three aims of Scouting: citizenship, growth in moral strength and character, and mental and physical development. The advancement program is designed to provide the Boy Scout with a chance to achieve the aims of Scouting. As a Scout advances, he is measured and grows in confidence and self-reliance.
Rank Advancement
What is advancement, and what role does it play in Scouting?
Education and fun are functions of the Scouting movement—as is the growth of our youth members—and make up the basis of the advancement program. As the Scout meets certain requirements, he may advance in rank. The Scouting program is designed to help young people have an exciting and meaningful experience. A quality Scouting program strives for the following:
- Every young person achieves personal growth.
- Each individual learns by doing.
- Youth members progress at their own rate.
- All young people receive recognition for their individual accomplishments.
- Youth participants are encouraged to embrace Scouting ideals.
How is Scout spirit defined and determined?
Scout spirit applies to how a Scout lives and conducts his daily life. He shows Scout spirit by being a role model to his peers, living by the Scout Oath and Law. The concept of Scout spirit is not based on how many Scouting events or outings a Scout attends, but rather by how he helps bring out the best in others as a reflection of his own character and attitude in his daily life.
Scout Tenderfoot 2nd Class
1st Class Star Life Eagle
Interesting Tidbit
For Every 100 Boys Who Join Scouting.....
8 will enter a vocation that he has learned through Scouting
17 will be future Scout Leaders
18 will develop hobbies that will last a lifetime
1 will use his Scouting skills to save a life
5 will earn their religious award
5 will become Eagle Scouts
1 will use his Scout skills to save HIS OWN LIFE
12 will have their first contact with a religious institution
Rarely will one be brought before a juvenile court
1 will enter the clergy