Achieving growth in any organization is a profound accomplishment. Sustaining that growth month after month and year after year is a mark of excellence. Scouting programs in the Buckeye Council are distinguished by that very mark. The number of youth in our programs has grown for the past 24 consecutive months. In 2023, more youth went to camp, more youth joined, and more achievements were earned than the prior year. Most significantly Cub Scouting grew by more than 5%, and overall the total youth served in our Council grew by 1% representing more than 4,600 kids across our 12 county footprint. Cub Scout camping programs more than doubled in 2023 demonstrating the value and benefit of quality time together for families. It is there, in the outdoor classroom, where the leadership and character lessons are brought to life and crystallized as both life-long memories and skills.

 

Scouting's excellence is sustained because its lessons are rooted in the values represented by our Oath and Law. Fostering duty to God and country, teaching and exemplifying leadership, and promoting ideals like loyalty, bravery, and trustworthiness are at the core of what we do. These timeless lessons resonate with today's families and paint a bright future for our communities. That future is filled with hope and promise as we celebrate the achievement of the 116 scouts who earned the Eagle Award in 2023. For these Scouts represent the very best of our future leaders.