Hello from the LHC Advancement Committee! My primary area of responsibility is Scouts BSA advancement, in particular…merit badges!
Over the years I have been in scouting, I have seen many adults and youths look at Merit Badges as a “To-do” checklist. However, there is so much more to gain. Merit badges can help our youth explore different hobbies, interest, professions and can just be plain fun! It is important for a scout to work with other adults outside of their troop on badges. This helps to develop their communications skills as well as exposes them to different people with different skills and experiences.
The recommended merit badge process, according to the Guide To Advancement, page 47 is as follows:
1. The Scout develops an interest in a merit badge and may begin working on the requirements.
2. The Scout and unit leader discuss the Scout’s interest in the merit badge.
3. The unit leader signs a blue card or otherwise documents the conversation and provides the Scout with at least one counselor contact.
4. The Scout contacts the counselor. Copies another adult!!
5. The counselor considers any work toward requirements completed prior to the initial discussion with the unit leader.
6. The Scout, the Scout’s buddy, and the counselor meet (often several times).
7. Partial progress is recorded as requirements are completed.
8. The Scout finishes the requirements.
9. The counselor approves completion.
10. The Scout gives the blue card or other evidence of completion to the unit leader. The unit leader signs the applicant record section of the blue card or otherwise documents completion of the merit badge.
11. The unit leader gives the Scout the applicant record portion of the blue card or other hard copy record that the Scout may retain.
12. The unit reports completion of the merit badge.
13. The Scout receives the merit badge.
If you have any questions or need any support, please do not hesitate to reach out to me or any other member of the advancement Committee!
