We took a look at the Personal Fitness merit badge to inspire six goals attainable for Scouts and adults, alike, who want to pay special attention to their health in 2026. Read More! | |
MLK Day of Service
Monday, January 19th
On January 19, 2026, Scouts across the country will honor the Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service by leading meaningful volunteer efforts in their communities. From cleanups and food drives to supporting shelters and local service organizations, Scouts will live out Dr. King’s call for a “Day On, Not a Day Off.” Dr. King himself was a Scout in Troop 151 in Atlanta, where his early experiences helped shape a lifelong commitment to leadership and service. Units are encouraged to plan projects that reflect his legacy and demonstrate the power of service in action.
[Visit the Scout Shop]
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James River District Pinewood Derby
Saturday, March 7th
Racers, ready your Pinewood Derby car! The inaugural James River District Pinewood Derby Grand Prix is heading to Trinity United Methodist Church on March 7, 2026. This district-wide event gives your Scout the chance to meet fellow Cub Scouts from across the district as they race to become the 2026 James River District Pinewood Derby Champion. This is a free event open to all Cub Scouts registered in the James River District, from Lion through Arrow of Light (AOL).
[Register to Race!]
| | Scouts BSA, Exploring, Venturing, & Sea Scouts | |
Spots Are Open for Winter Camp 2026!
It's Not Too Late – Get Registered Today
Winter Camp is almost here, kicking off January 16–19, and there’s still time to join the fun! A number of registration spots and meal plans remain available, making this the perfect chance for units to add another Scout or jump in for the first time in the New Year. Scout leaders, if you thought you’d missed out, think again. Don't miss this cool winter experience! Please email either Pam Miscikowski or Melissa Bartholomew to get started!
[See the Leader's Guide & Merit Badge Offerings]
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Glenn A. & Melinda W. Adams Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award (ESSPY)
The ESSPY Award recognizes a service project of an exceptional nature by a Scout to a religious institution, a school, community, or other entity. Each year, local councils select a council-level winner, and from that pool, each service territory selects a territory-level winner. A national winner is then selected from the 16 territory finalists. Nominations are due by the end of January.
[Learn More and Make an ESSPY Nomination]
| | Did You Read the January Courier? | | |
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]
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"Everytime you tear a leaf off a calendar, you present a new place for new ideas and progress."
- Charles Ketterling, American inventor, engineer, businessman, and holder of 186 patents. He served as the head of research at General Motors from 1920 to 1947 and was the inventor of the Delco ignition system.
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