☀️ denotes new information, and 🚨denotes an event that is happening now! | | | |
☀️Scout Safety Moment: Homesickness
Many of us can feel a bit out of sorts when away from familiar surroundings, and Scouts are no different. Many Scouts experience some symptoms of homesickness during campouts, and identifying these symptoms early and addressing them can help make the event a great experience for everyone. According to the American Camp Association, most campers report at least some homesick feelings during one day of their camp stay. Common symptoms include mild depression, anxiety, withdrawn behavior, somatic—or physical—complaints, and misbehavior.
[Learn More]
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🚨 S.A.F.E. Guarding Youth Training
All registered leaders must complete the new S.A.F.E. Guarding Youth Training (SYT) by the May 31st deadline, regardless of the expiration status of their YPT, to be considered fully trained. Please visit https://my.scouting.org/ to complete SYT now, ahead of your spring and summer adventures, to ensure you have the training in place to move forward with your plans. Make it a training day! Take another 25 or so minutes to also complete the required Hazardous Weather Training and learn how to identify hazardous weather, react to potentially dangerous situations, and keep your Scouts safe!
[Read More & See the HOVC SYT Policy]
[Get S.A.F.E. Guarding Youth Trained]
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🚨George Goodwin, Dragon Slayer
ScoutLife Magazine Giveaway
Ready for an adventure that breathes fire? Order of the Dragon Slayer by Candace Lee and Eric Newman, with a foreword by legendary Scouter Bear Grylls, launches Scouts into a thrilling world of dragons, danger, and destiny. Follow George Goodwin and his troop as they break the rules, dive deep into forbidden coal mines, and uncover secrets that could change everything, all while relying on courage, friendship, and a few trusty Scouting skills. Even better? ScoutLife Magazine is giving away 5 FREE copies! Don’t miss your chance to grab this epic, laugh-out-loud adventure and discover the kind of heroes the world needs right now. Enter the drawing below, or check out the May edition of ScoutLife magazine for details!
[Enter the Drawing Through May 31st]
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☀️TikTok & Reel Challenge
This is the Fun We Have in Scouting
This summer, the adventure doesn’t stop when the meeting ends, and we want to see it! The Heart of Virginia Council TikTok / Reel Challenge is officially on, and Scouts are invited to share the incredible fun, friendships, skills, and memories they’re making through Scouting. From campfires and canoe trips to hilarious moments and high adventure, show the world “This is the fun we get to do in Scouts!” using #VAScouts for your chance to win awesome prizes for your unit and yourself. Contest runs June 1st through August 8th, so charge those phones, get creative, and let the adventures roll!
[Download the Event Flyer]
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☀️ Petersburg Bureau of Police Exploring Post
Interest Meeting on June 16th
Join our friends with the Petersburg Bureau of Police and become a member of their new Exploring Post! An interest meeting is scheduled for June 16th at 6pm at the Support Services Division (32. W. Washington Street in Petersburg). Refreshments will be served! The official program begins this August. Keep your eyes peeled for updates, and register to join us below.
[Join This Post!]
[Learn More About Exploring]
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Watkins Nurseries Exploring Post
Open House on June 18th
We're excited to announce a brand-new Exploring Post hosted by our friends at Watkins Nurseries. Come by the Open House on June 13th at 9:00am, which serves as the first official meeting, then join meetings on Saturday mornings for 6 weeks where you'll learn about seed planting, monitoring germination, ball and burlapping a tree root, general pruning, transplanting, the laws and techniques of horticulture, outdoor practice, and exposure. This is a great opportunity for your Scout to learn more about a career in horticulture. Register below!
[Join in on the Fun!]
[Learn More About Exploring]
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☀️ Happy Father's Day
Sunday, June 21st
From Pinewood Derby workshops and campfires to hikes, fishing trips, and late-night tent setup, fathers and father figures play an incredible role in the Scouting journey. Their encouragement, patience, leadership, and willingness to jump into the adventure help shape confident, capable young people and create memories that last a lifetime. This Father’s Day, we celebrate the dads, grandfathers, stepfathers, mentors, and leaders who make Scouting stronger through their time, love, and example. Thank you for helping guide the next generation of leaders, one adventure at a time.
[Father's Day Gift Guide]
[ScoutLife Father's Day Resources]
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Register Your Unit for the Fall Popcorn & Peanut Fundraiser
Set your unit up for a successful year by participating in the Fall Popcorn & Peanut Sale! This fundraiser provides the tools, training, and incentives your Scouts need to reach their goals and fund their adventures. Register your unit to reserve materials and gain access to helpful resources. RSVP to attend a kick-off event to pick up supplies and learn tips for a smooth and rewarding sale. The official sale begins August 22 - sign up today and get started!
[Register Your Unit Here!]
[Pop Over to PopcornVirginia.org]
[Attend the September 5th Costume-Making Workshop]
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☀️ Update on the Proposed Council Merger
The Colonial Virginia Council (CVC) Executive Board met this month to discuss the potential merger with the Heart of Virginia Council (HOVC) and their future strategy. They determined that they did not have the board votes to get them to the 2/3rd majority needed to merge with the HOVC. This concludes merger discussions between the Heart of Virginia Council and the Colonial Virginia Council.
[Read the Statement]
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☀️ Scout Night at the Diamond
Friday, July 24th
Everyone's favorite Scout Night is on the books! Mark your calendars for July 24th for the first Scout Night at the Diamond at the new CarMax Park! Come on out for a great game as the Richmond Flying Squirrels take on the Akron Rubber Ducks; then, extend the fun with your own special Ardillas Voladoras Scout Patches and a special viewing of "Rookie of the Year" on their big, new videoboard!
[Play Ball!]
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☀️Scout Night with the Tri-City Chili Peppers
Saturday, June 27th
Scout Night with the Tri-City Chili Peppers is BACK! Add some fun to your summertime calendar, and come out to Shepherd's Stadium the evening of June 27th to cheer on our friends the Tri-City Chili Peppers as they take on the Greenbrier Knights!
[Join In The Fun!]
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☀️Military Family Fee Waiver
National Youth Registration Fees Waived as of June 1st
For military families, life often comes with frequent moves, changing schools, and rebuilding community connections. Scouting provides a place where youth can quickly make friends, grow in confidence, and develop leadership skills no matter where life takes them. That’s why Scouting America is proud to expand access to Scouting for military-connected families through a new Military Family Registration Fee Waiver beginning June 1, 2026. Under this new national initiative, the $85 National Youth Registration Fee will be waived for eligible military families through an online verification and discount code process. This benefit applies to both new and renewing youth members and is funded nationally through philanthropic support.
[Read All About It!]
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☀️New Eagle Scout Harris Poll
A Legacy of Values-Based Leadership & Service
New research from Baylor University confirms what generations of Scouts, parents, and community leaders have long believed: Eagle Scouts are more likely to lead, serve, volunteer, give back to their communities, and make a lasting positive impact throughout their lives. The journey to Eagle is about far more than merit badges. It’s years of learning resilience, responsibility, teamwork, and servant leadership through real experiences and real challenges. In a world that needs courageous, ethical, and community-minded leaders more than ever, this research is a powerful reminder that Scouting continues to shape young people into exactly the kind of adults our communities need.
[Explore the Results]
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☀️Ian Coddington Philmont Scout Ranch Scholarship
Established by Gil & Martha Grattan
The Heart of Virginia Council is proud to introduce the Ian Coddington Philmont Scout Ranch Scholarship Fund - an incredible new opportunity designed to help more Scouts experience the adventure of a lifetime at Philmont Scout Ranch. Thanks to the generosity of Gil and Martha Grattan, this permanent endowment will support at least three Scouts each year who might not otherwise be able to attend. Named in honor of longtime Scouter Ian Coddington, who has inspired generations of youth and led more than 20 Philmont treks, this fund ensures that financial barriers won’t stand in the way of life-changing experiences.
[Learn More & Apply]
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24th Annual Sporting Clays Classic
Thursday, October 8th
Join us on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at the beautiful Heart of Virginia Scout Reservation for the 24th Annual Heart of Virginia Council Sporting Clays Classic. This signature event offers an unforgettable day for both experienced shooters and first-time participants, with two course options and flexible morning or afternoon flights. Guests will enjoy a hot breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon reception featuring heavy hors d’oeuvres, beverages, and cigars, along with exciting drawings, a silent auction, and great prizes. Best of all, every shot supports and grows Scouting programs across Central Virginia.
[Register]
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☀️Build the Adventure Program Planning Event
Replay the Videos & Get the Resources
Each year, all Scout units should hold a summer program planning meeting where the calendar and program plan for the next year is discussed, mapped out, and set. For Cub Scout Packs, this meeting usually includes all pack volunteers and Cub parents. In Scout Troops, these program planning meetings typically include the Patrol Leader’s Council, the Troop Committee, and Scoutmasters. We hope you joined us for a very special Facebook Event on May 27th where we discussed program planning for Packs, Troops, Crews, and Posts, shared great tips and tricks, and learned more about upcoming training and fundraising opportunities. Visit the links below to see the videos!
[Visit our Facebook Page]
[Visit the Build the Adventure Resource Page]
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☀️Cub Scout Summertime Fun Adventure
2026 Planner Now Available!
The Cub Scout Required & Elective Adventures page, also known as the Cub Hub, is full of great program materials and links to special resources. One helpful tool is the Summertime Fun Adventure Planner, a month-by-month resource that helps you build a summertime calendar for your unit that helps your Scouts have fun while earning the Summertime Fun Adventure beltloop. Get yours by scrolling down to the Summertime Fun Adventure and clicking the title link, or by visiting the link below.
[Get Your 2026 Planner!]
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Unit Planning Calendar for 2026–2027
The 2026–2027 Scouting America Unit Planning Calendar is a fantastic tool to help packs and troops map out a strong, organized program year. It provides a month-by-month layout that includes national Scouting observances, holidays, and helpful planning themes that leaders can use to build engaging meetings and activities. This calendar is especially useful during annual program planning conferences, giving leaders a big-picture view while leaving room to add local council, district, and unit events. When used as a foundation for planning, it helps units stay organized, avoid scheduling conflicts, and deliver a well-balanced, adventure-filled year for Scouts and families.
[Get The Calendar]
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☀️Calling All Talent-Having Scout Parents
Complete a Family Talent Survey
Can you change a tire? Bake legendary brownies? Work in STEM? Love fishing, crafting, photography, gardening, camping, music, social media, or organizing chaos? Congratulations! Your Cub Scout Pack needs YOU! Our Family Talent Survey helps us discover the amazing skills, hobbies, careers, and passions hidden within our Scout families so we can build the BEST possible program for our kids. You don’t need to commit to being a full-time leader to make a big impact. Sometimes one special skill, one afternoon, or one helping hand can create a memory a Scout never forgets. Take a few minutes to complete the survey and help us make the adventure even bigger, better, and more fun for every Scout!
[Download a Copy]
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☀️Heart of Virginia Council Calendar
Are you looking for great Scouting activities to add to your program plan, but aren't sure what's coming up? Bookmark the Heart of Virginia Council Calendar, our online living resource managed through our Black Pug reservation system that links directly to upcoming events and special observances. Personalize it, print it, get it on your phone, sync it to your personal calendar... whatever suits your needs.
[Take Me to the Calendar]
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☀️New, Simpler Renewal Cycle for All Members
Big Changes Coming by February 2028
Scouting America announced an important change at the National Annual Meeting (NAM) that will simplify the membership and unit renewal process nationwide. By February 2028, all members and all units will have a single, common renewal month of February. This change is in response to feedback from unit leaders and other Scouters who asked for a simpler, more consistent renewal experience. We appreciate and value their input.
[Read the Full Article]
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☀️How to Head Off Homesickness
Before and During Resident Camp
For many parents, summer camp can feel like a bigger adjustment for them than for their Scout — especially when homesickness enters the picture. A helpful article from Scout Life Magazine encourages families to prepare Scouts ahead of camp by building confidence, focusing on the fun ahead, and keeping goodbyes positive and encouraging rather than emotional. The article also reminds parents that homesickness is normal, usually temporary, and often overcome quickly once Scouts become engaged in activities, friendships, and camp routines. With support from leaders and encouragement from home, many Scouts return from camp more confident, independent, and proud of what they accomplished than they ever imagined possible.
[Read More!]
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☀️Send Your Scout A Care Package
Summer Camp is packed with adventure, but even the most fearless Scout can feel a twinge of homesickness. That’s where you come in! A surprise care package, stuffed with snacks, games, or a simple “you’ve got this!” note, can be just the morale boost they need to power through the week. Yes, you can send one... and we’ll make sure it gets into their eager hands.
Address packages like this:
Scout Name
Troop #, Week #
Camp T. Brady Saunders
1723 Maidens Road
Maidens, VA 23102
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☀️TrailBlazers: First Year Camper Program
Through the First Year Camper Program throughout the week, first year campers will blaze their own path on the trail to Eagle while having the time of their lives! The Trail Blazers program will combine both rank requirements and a love of the outdoors to instill in the young Scouts a desire to achieve. It will also inspire them to look deeper into Scouting and the experiences it can bring. This program is designed to expose young Scouts to the requirements for Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First-Class ranks. Trail Blazers does not sign off on any requirements except Firem’n Chit and Totin’ Chip. The Scout must go through the troop’s advancement program to sign-off the requirements.
[Learn More]
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Day Camp Volunteers Needed!
Our upcoming Day Camp at Deep Run Park (June 1–5) is shaping up to be an exciting week, and we need enthusiastic adult volunteers to help make it a success. Volunteer opportunities are available in Range & Target Activities, as Den Walkers, and with Board Games and Sports. Volunteers are needed from 8:45 AM to 4:15 PM daily, but even helping for one or two days would make a big difference. Training, materials, and support are provided—come have fun, make new friends, and help create an unforgettable camp experience for our Scouts!
[Day Camp Volunteer Registration]
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Summer Camp at Cub Adventure Camp
One of the most rewarding and character-building things a family can do together is go camping. Bring your Scout to a session at Cub Adventure Camp this summer. Adventure Camp offers a 4-day, 3-night experience this summer at the Heart of Virginia Scout Reservation in Goochland County.
Session 1: June 12 - June 15
Session 2: June 17 – June 20
Session 3: July 17 – July 20
[Only the Valiant Need Apply!]
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👑 Cub Summer Camp Coloring Contest
Be King or Queen for a Day!
We are excited to announce a Coloring Contest for Summer Cub Adventure Camp and Cub Day Camp. Our flyers about these programs are coloring pages, and after your Scout has finished decorating their paper, you can upload their artwork to our online album at https://bit.ly/2026CubContest. One winner will be randomly selected by a panel of judges to be King or Queen for a day at camp; they'll receive a crown, free slushies from the Trading Post, and other fun perks!
[Download Your Coloring Book Sheets Today!]
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Have You Visited the Cub Hub Yet?
Did you know we've developed an expertly curated collection of materials to make the job of a Cub Scout leader a little easier? The Cub Scout Required & Elective Adventures Hub (aka: The Cub Hub) organizes each adventure by its focus, and provides supporting materials, supplements, and additional resources. We're also proud to house materials developed BY our volunteers FOR our volunteers, like downloadable and customizable Den Adventure Plans and Rank Tracker Sheets, and "unofficial" Den Leader Guides! There are Den Leader overview videos for each rank, links to important materials such as the Guide to Safe Scouting, official training, and more.
[Check It Out!]
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Cub Chat Live, 3pm on Fridays
Each Friday at 3pm Eastern, Scouting Magazine hosts Cub Chat Live broadcasts on Facebook and YouTube. Each week, they talk about useful tips, tricks and ideas that help your den or Pack!
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May 29: Upcoming Cub Scout Projects
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June 5: TBD
Did you miss the episode on May 15th where we talked about Highlights from National Annual Meeting? Catch up on the archives using the link below.
[Tune In to Cub Chat Live]
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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]
| | | Scouts BSA, Exploring, Venturing, & Sea Scouts | | | |
☀️Sea Scout Advancement Updates
Announced May 15th, Effective July 1st
A new update from Sea Scouts outlines important changes and clarifications to Sea Scout advancement requirements taking effect July 1, 2026. The updates are designed to better support youth advancement while continuing to strengthen seamanship, leadership, service, and maritime skills throughout the program. Sea Scouts, leaders, and parents are encouraged to review the changes carefully to ensure everyone is working from the most current requirements and resources.
[Get the Updates]
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Camp T. Brady Saunders 2026 Summer Camp
Merit Badge Registration Is Open!
It might be hard to tell from all the crazy weather, but summer is right around the corner. Now is the perfect time to take inventory, restock essentials, and start thinking ahead to this summer’s adventures. A little preparation now means fewer surprises later and a smoother trail into the 2026 camping season. Provisional Scouts are welcomed! Registration is open and your Scouts can choose their merit badges!
[Register Today!]
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TBS Summer Camp Volunteers
Summer camp is just around the corner, and we need enthusiastic volunteers to help make it an unforgettable experience for our Scouts. From program support and merit badge instruction to behind-the-scenes assistance, there are many ways adults can lend a hand and make a lasting impact. Volunteering at camp is a rewarding opportunity to support youth, enjoy the outdoors, and be part of the excitement of Scouting in action.
John Allen, Camp Director
804-314-6261
john.allen602@scouting.org
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Join the Ranger Challenge
Looking for a summer camp experience that goes beyond the ordinary? Ranger Challenge at Camp T. Brady Saunders is a special half-day high adventure program for Scouts age 13 and older, designed to test both mind and body through exciting on-site and off-site adventures. Participants may tackle activities like climbing, whitewater rafting, and other unforgettable challenges while building confidence, leadership, and teamwork. If your Scout is ready for something bigger this summer, Ranger Challenge is calling.
[Register Today!]
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Buckskin: The Leadership Experience
August 2nd–8th
Buckskin: The Leadership Experience is a week-long intensive course for Scouts 14+ (Star rank or higher) who are ready to lead. Participants will learn 19 essential leadership skills, advance their outdoor abilities, and apply teamwork through the Patrol Method. With Scoutmaster approval, a strong work ethic, and at least one long-term camping trip completed, Scouts will gain the confidence to lead in their units and beyond. Step up, take the challenge, and become the leader you’re meant to be!
[Register for Buckskin]
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National Youth Leadership Training - NYLT
September 2026
Registration is now open for the Heart of Virginia Council's 2026 National Youth Leadership Training Course! This year, the course is being held over the period of two weekends this fall on the Cub Adventure Camp side of the Goochland Scout Reservation.
September 4th–7th & Septemer 18th–20th
Register today to shape your leadership abilities, develop meaningful relationships, and discover a Scouting experience like no other!
[Register for Fall NYLT]
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☀️Hampden-Sydney College Merit Badge Day
Rescheduled for Saturday, November 7th
Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia is hosting their annual Merit Badge Day on November 7th (rescheduled from June), open to all Scouts BSA Troops in the Heart of Virginia Council. Thanks to the support and involvement of the college administration, faculty, staff and community, we are able to offer a great day and merit badge opportunities taught by qualified instructors. While you are there, we hope you will explore their 1330 acre historic campus.
[Registration Is Open!]
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2027 Florida Sea Base Registration Is Open!
Looking for some high adventure in one of the most beautiful and exciting places on Earth? Get Florida Sea Base on your calendar for 2027! Sea Base offers 18 different adventures at 4 amazing locations, many of which have different activities. Those locations are the main Sea Base in Islamorada, FL, the Brinton Environmental Center in Summerland Key, FL, the Bahamas, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Scouts will experience scuba, snorkeling, sailing, paddling, kayaking, fishing, and more. This is truly an experience of a lifetime.
[Register Today!]
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Exploring Explosion 3.0
Opening Doors to Careers for the Next Generation
Exploring Explosion 3.0 is a nationwide effort to grow career-focused Exploring programs for teens and young adults. Through new Clubs and Posts, youth connect with professionals, gain hands-on experience, and explore real career pathways while building leadership and life skills. National trainings and resources support leaders in launching successful programs, with special recognition for new units formed during the campaign. It’s a powerful way to open doors for youth and strengthen communities at the same time.
[Get the Explosion Details]
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Troop Talk Live
3pm on 2nd Wednesdays
The second Wednesday of each month at 3pm, Scouting Magazine hosts Troop Talk Live on Facebook. These brief chats cover a variety of topics, from accommodating Scouts with disabilities to uniforming, youth leadership, the Path to Eagle, and more.
[Tune In]
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Join the TBS Amateur Radio Club
The FCC Amateur Radio Service and Scouting share a common mission: service to others. The Camp TBS Amateur Radio Club (ARC) was formed in 2019 while the affiliated operating station was constructed. The station is located at Camp T. Brady Saunders. The goal of this project is to provide a space for STEM programs in radio and teaching the Radio Merit Badge. Membership is informal and offered to Scouting America registered youth and adult volunteers at no cost.
[Join the Club!]
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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 for your Troop, Crew, or Ship. Craft adventures around the activities your Scouts enjoy the most, like camping, range & target sports, climbing and rappelling, boating, welding, COPE, and more!
[Plan Your Weekend Experience]
| | Adult Training Opportunities | | | |
Cub Scout Range Master Training
May 31st at 1:00pm
We're excited to offer FREE Cub Scout Range Master Training for adults who'd like to run range and target activities for the Scouts in their Dens and Pack as part of District and Council activities. The next session of this special training is scheduled for May 31st at Cub Adventure Camp and covers important materials such as setting up a range, safety, handling, maintaining and storing equipment, and instructing your Scouts.
[Register for the May 31st Session]
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☀️Adult Leadership Training: BALOO & IOLS
October 10th – 11th
You're not seeing double! BALOO and IOLS are offered twice this fall. BALOO (Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation) is for Cub Scout leaders and IOLS (Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills) is for Scouts BSA leaders. These hands-on courses prepare you to safely lead overnight adventures and deliver unforgettable outdoor programs. Get trained, get outside, and give your Scouts the adventure they deserve! Registration is open now for these events!
[Register for BALOO]
[Register for IOLS]
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S.A.F.E. Guarding Youth Training
Replaced Youth Protection Training
Scouting America's S.A.F.E. Guarding Youth Training replaced the former Youth Protection Training (YPT). This training is required annually for all registered volunteers and emphasizes modern safety topics like online risks and mental health, alongside abuse prevention. It includes a 90-minute initial course and shorter annual refreshers, all accessible through my.scouting.org. The change reflects a renewed commitment to creating the safest possible environment for youth in Scouting.
[Read All About It]
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Hazardous Weather Training
Required for Direct-Contact Leaders
Hazardous Weather Training is required for all direct-contact leaders in Scouting America, and helps Scouting leaders recognize and respond to weather-related risks during Scouting activities. This online course provides essential knowledge to plan safe outdoor adventures, assess weather threats, and take the right action when conditions change. It’s an essential part of ensuring youth safety in the outdoors. This 30-minute training must be completed every two years. At a minimum, one adult leader must complete this before a unit can camp with youth.
[Are You Fully Trained?]
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Eagle Challenge Brick Orders
Due by July 10th
Honor the achievement of an Eagle Scout with a personalized engraved Eagle Brick, a lasting tribute placed at the Hill Family Flag Plaza at T. Brady Saunders Scout Reservation overlooking Lake Dillon. Each brick is $200 and includes up to two lines of engraving, with eighteen characters per line to commemorate this milestone accomplishment. Proceeds from the Eagle Brick Program directly support Scouting programs across the Heart of Virginia Council. The 2026 Eagle Brick Ceremony will take place in fall 2026, with orders due by July 10 to be included in this special event.
[Eagle Challenge Brick Page]
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☀️Outdoor Activity Metrics
Every campout, hike, service project, fishing trip, bike ride, or outdoor adventure tells the story of Scouting in action... but only if it gets counted. Adult leaders, please take a few moments to log your unit’s outdoor connection metrics on my.scouting.org so we can better showcase the incredible adventures happening across our council. These numbers help highlight program impact, celebrate your hard work, and demonstrate the value of Scouting to families and communities. If your Scouts are getting outside, learning skills, and making memories, make sure it counts.
[Learn How to Track This Metric]
| | | Council, District & Scout Shop News | |
☀️ Spring & Summer Performance Uniform Shirts
Is it time for a wardrobe refresh? Do a little spring shopping now to prepare for all of your upcoming warm-weather adventures. New shirt designs are popping up, including the Performance Uniform Shirts (in limited sizes). Also new to the Scout Shop are great program-specific tees for all occassions.
[Visit the Scout Shop]
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Patch Sewing Service
Did you know that the Scout Shop offers a Patch Sewing Service to save you time and frustration (especially if you don't own a sewing machine, and the thought of hand-stitching or using Badge Magic makes you shudder)? We offer brand new uniform shirts with all the pre-sewn bells and whistles, and can even add Unit Numerals, badges of office, and even merit badge patches for just $4.00 per patch.
[Visit the Scout Shop]
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Custom Unit Number Patches
Now you can order custom unit number patches with no minimum required—even just one! If you prefer the clean look of a single patch on your uniform or want to skip sewing multiple individual number patches, we’ve got you covered. Contact the Scout Shop at scoutshophovc@scouting.org or 804-204-2628 to place your order.
[Visit the Scout Shop]
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State, Unit, Den, and America250 Flag Orders
Whether you're replacing an old and tattered unit flag, or you want one with a Scouting America logo, all unit flag purchases now go through Freedom and Glory (fka: Carrot-Top Industries). Create a customized flag on their website, linked below, utilizing the Scouting America branding. Also available are American, State, Den, and America250 flags, all made here in the USA.
[Snag a Flag]
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District Roundtables
Roundtable is a monthly program offered by districts that give leaders hands-on experience and provides a forum for leaders to offer and receive help from their fellow Scouters. Each district offers special supplemental training for volunteers at the beginning of the month.
[Learn More & Get the Dates]
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OnTarget Shooting Sports Facility
Our next big project, the OnTarget Shooting Sports Facility at Camp T. Brady Saunders, is an exciting investment in the future of youth marksmanship. These new state-of-the-art facilities will provide Scouts with beautiful and safe ranges to hone their rifle, shotgun, and archery skills. Huge thanks to our friends at Richmond BizSense for featuring a great story about the new facilities and our ongoing fundraising efforts. Learn more about it by reading the article linked below and visiting https://hovc.org/ontarget/.
[Read All About It]
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Heart of Virginia Council Strategic Plan
Scouting has a rich history of positively impacting the lives of over 130 million youth, and we have a bright future ahead of us. We have modernized our traditional programs with the innovations of science and technology, while infusing safety into all aspects of our program. We continue to enable the girls and boys involved to develop lifelong friendships and build the life skills needed to become the future leaders of our communities, businesses, and country.
[Read Our Full Strategic Plan]
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Heart of Virginia Council Master Plan
We invite you to visit our Heart of Virginia Council Master Plan page to learn more about where we've spent more than $950,550 to improve our Scout Reservation, and how we intend to continue making improvements in the years to come! These projects cannot be completed without the support of the units who participate in our annual fundraising (Popcorn & Peanuts, and Camp Cards) or our very generous donors! Thank you!
[View the HOVC Master Plan]
| | Recruitment & New Membership | | | |
Show Families Why Scouting Matters!
As we move into the heart of our program year, we have an important opportunity in front of us. Membership across our council has remained steady, but we know there are many more families in our communities who would benefit from Scouting. With your leadership, we can get our membership engine moving again. Families today are looking for programs that build confidence, character, and leadership in a safe and structured environment. Scouting delivers exactly that. Our youth meet weekly, learn practical life skills, explore the outdoors, serve their communities, and grow into capable leaders, all at a cost that remains affordable compared to most youth activities.
[Why Scouting Matters]
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Monthly Payment Plan
for New Scouts and Adult Leaders
The Heart of Virginia Council is proud to offer a monthly payment plan to help new families join Scouting without the burden of paying the full annual registration fee upfront. This option is for new families who wish to pay a monthly registration fee like Netflix or Apple Music to be registered members of Scouting America instead of paying for all the registration up front. The payment plan would be recurring each month on a credit card or debit card.
[Learn More!]
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2026 Season Pass for the Heart of Virginia Council
Savings for Everyone
The Heart of Virginia Council is excited to introduce a new $85 youth program fee, which now includes a 2026 Season Program Pass packed with value for all Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA youth in our council. The Season Pass offers free or discounted access to popular council events like the Spring Cub Camporee, Pinewood Derby, Fishing Derbies, and Summer Camp discounts. With over $111 in value, families will see more benefits and opportunities for their Scouts to participate in exciting, well-run programs.
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BeAScout Leads & Invitations
Regularly Check My.Scouting Membership Manager
Hey Unit Key 3! Are you keeping up with your BeAScout leads and applications? More families than ever are discovering the excitement of Scouting online, and they’re ready to jump in—don’t leave them hanging! Now’s the time to review, follow up, and welcome new members to your pack, troop, or crew. Want to manage those leads like a pro? Take action when you receive lead and invitation notification emails, and reach out to your District Executive with issues or questions.
[Become A Membership Manager Pro]
| | | Recognition, Memorials & Honors | |
Memorials & Honors
Memorials & Honors are a way for us to pay tribute to, cherish, and remember our Scouting mentors and loved ones. Honors and Memorials can be made at the Leadership Center or by mailing donations to 8090 Villa Park Drive, Henrico, VA 23228. Please include a memo denoting the individual(s) you are donating in honor or memorial of.
[View Our Memorials & Honors]
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Review Us on Google
The HOVC Communications team continues to work hard to provide existing, new, and potential Scouts with the best possible experience! That includes access to great, accurate information… and we think YOU are an important source! We would love to hear from you about your positive experiences with HOVC.
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Friday 5 & Courier Newsletters
Get the top news stories of the week and month by subscribing to our Friday 5 and Courier newsletters. We'll keep you updated on the news you need every Friday at noon. Subscribe and view the archives by visiting the link below.
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