Scout Sunday and Scout Shabbat Services

Scout Sunday and Scout Shabbat 2026 will be observed on Sunday, February 8, marking the anniversary of the founding of Scouting America. This special day invites Scouts and their families to worship with their faith communities, give thanks for the support of their chartered organizations, and reflect on the Scout Oath’s promise to do one’s duty to God. Through service, participation, and visible leadership, Scouts demonstrate how Scouting builds character, strengthens values, and encourages reverence in everyday life. Scout Sunday is a meaningful opportunity to celebrate faith, gratitude, and the positive impact Scouting has on young people and communities alike. Yep - there's a patch for that!

[Visit the Scout Shop]
[Learn About Scout Shabbat]

College of Commissioner Science

Saturday, February 7th



Should YOU attend Commissioner College? If you’ve recently completed a tour as a Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, or other adult Scouter and are looking for a new way to serve, Commissioner College may be the perfect next step. Commissioners are the behind-the-scenes leaders who support Packs, Troops, and Crews by coaching unit leaders and helping units succeed. Commissioner College offers courses for both new and experienced Commissioners, covering everything from foundational training to advanced topics that strengthen leadership, communication, and unit service.

[Learn More & Register]

Customized Weekend Experiences

As you plan your program year, now is the perfect time to consider booking a customized Weekend Experience at the Heart of Virginia Council Scout Reservation. Craft adventures around the activities your Scouts enjoy the most, like camping, fishing, range & target sports, climbing, boating, sports, and more! Weekend Experiences are a great opportunity to take advantage of our Cub Adventure Camp and T. Brady Saunders properties and amenities. Imagine fishing and boating on Lake Dillon, diving into STEM activities, going on a nature hike, climbing the Patty Dunn Tower, and participating in marksmanship activities this spring!

[Plan Your Weekend Experience]

Patrick Henry Merit Badge Forum

January 31st at First Baptist Church



The Patrick Henry Public Speaking Forum returns on January 31, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Richmond, offering Scouts the opportunity to earn both the Public Speaking and Communication merit badges. Due to limited space in Communication classes, Scouts are asked to complete Public Speaking first, as it provides essential skills that make Communication smoother and more rewarding. Recommended prerequisites include Communication requirements 2, 3, 5, 7, and 8, and Public Speaking requirements 1, 2, and 4. We're thrilled to welcome Patrick Henry back again this year... you won’t want to miss it!

[Speak Boldly!]

2026 NESA Scholarship
Applications Due January 31st

College can offer life-changing experiences to those who choose to go that route. It’s also crazy expensive. That’s why the National Eagle Scout Association grants scholarships each year to Eagle Scouts who choose to continue their educational journey in college. “NESA scholarships aim to ease some of the financial burden of education and provide a platform for you to amplify your impact on the world,” says David Ehrlich, NESA vice president of finance and scholarships. “It’s not just about what you can achieve; it’s about the positive change you can bring to your community and beyond.”

[Read All About It]

Get these five stories and so much more by reading the Courier, our monthly newsletter! Scheduled for the last Friday of the month at noon, the Courier features all the news, special events, and useful information you need to get the most of your Scouting experience.

[Read This Month's Courier]