Scouting was founded on the principal of service to others, and the organization remains dedicated to that purpose. The goal of the Community Service Committee is to foster that ideal, to assist Scouting units in achievement of their community service objectives, and to recognize units and Scouts who perform service to others.

Why Perform Community Service?

1. The core values of Scouting are “to help other people at all times,” and to “do a good turn daily.”
2. It’s a win – win for Scouting and the community, benefiting the organizations and people where we live.
3. It teaches youth life-long lessons about the importance of community involvement and volunteerism.
4. It gives your unit’s program calendar, greater structure, variety and worthwhile activity.
5. It enables your unit to achieve its “Journey to Excellence” service project goals.

What types of activities are considered Community Service?

According the BSA Handbook, “A service project is a special Good Turn that puts Scout Spirit into action.”  Some Good Turns are big—saving a life, helping out after disasters. But most Good Turns small, thoughtful acts—helping a child cross a busy street, or going to the store for an elderly neighbor.  Scout Leaders are always the best source to ask regarding this question, as each Unit may have different ideas regarding the nature of community service the Unit wants to record.

Should a Unit record community service hours that are not counted towards advancement?

Absolutely.  Scouting Principles embody a commitment to service.   One of the purposes of community service is to show leadership in service work. Many Good Turns are done that are not advancement related and all should be encouraged to be recorded. (For advancement, Scoutmasters must approve the service).