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🍂 Breaking and updated news is denoted with falling leaves!

Hello, Scouter!

November 2025

Scout Safety Moment

🍂 Keeping Your Food Safe

Scout Safety Moment


As the weather cools and campfires start crackling, fall and winter camping bring new opportunities, and new food safety challenges. Keep your Scouts safe and your meals delicious with smart menu planning and proper food handling at every step. Whether you’re simmering stew over the fire or frying up eggs in a cast iron skillet, remember the three “C’s” for food safety: Keep it COLD, keep it CLEAN, and COOK it thoroughly. A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your troop healthy and happy around the campfire!



[Learn How to Keep Your Food Safe]

News for Right Now

🚨 Fall Scout Shop Uniforming Sale

Ends November 1st


The annual Fall Scout Shop Uniforming Sale is on! Save 10% on uniform bottoms when you purchase a matching uniform top. While you're there, let us save your fingers by taking advantage of our Patch Sewing Service. 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. Don't forget that you can visit us in person, place an order over the phone, or order online!


[Get the Details!]

🍂 Regular Scout Shop Hours

Effective November 2nd


As of Sunday, November 2nd, our Scout Shop will return to regular business hours. We've enjoyed seeing you during our extended fall recruitment season hours, and were thrilled to help you pick out your brand-new Scout uniforms. Thanks for coming by! We'll see you in November and December as we celebrate the holiday season with plenty of gifts for everyone on your list.


[See the Scout Shop Page]

🍂 Thank You, Virginia Family Dentistry!

Plus, FOX Holiday Socks Collection Drive


We'd like to give a HUGE shout-out to our friends at Virginia Family Dentistry for their generous support of our Creepy Hollow and Glow Trail Run events! For 24 years, VFD has supported FOX Holiday Socks, benefitting the children enrolled in the Salvation Army's Christmas Assistance Program. Through donations made by VFD and the public, each child enrolled in the program receives a stocking full of age-appropriate toys, games, winter accessories, toiletries, and books. Collection boxes can be found at your local VFD location from November 3rd through December 4th.


[FOX Holiday Socks]

🍂 Thanksgiving Closures


The Leadership Center & Scout Shop will be closed Thursday, November 27th through Sunday, the 30th in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. We will open with regular business hours on Monday, December 1st.


[Scout Life's Thanksgiving Recipes & Craft Roundup]

[A Scout's Thanksgiving Prayer]

[See the Council Calendar]

🍂 April 21st, 2026 Friends of Scouting Dinner

with Keynote Speaker, Jim Cantore


Normally when Jim Cantore shows up, you prepare to evacuate… but this time, you’ll want front-row seats! Join us April 21, 2026, for our annual Heart of Virginia Council Friends of Scouting Dinner, proudly sponsored by Pike, where we’re Forecasting Tomorrow’s Leaders. You're invited! Visit the link below and make a donation of at least $300 to save yourself a seat for what we know will be another exciting and successful event.


[Get the Details]

🍂 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]

🍂 Messengers of Peace

Be the Change. Share the Peace.


The Messengers of Peace award celebrates Scouts who take action to improve their communities and the world. Whether it's leading a food drive, creating a mental health awareness campaign, restoring a habitat, or promoting kindness in schools, Scouts can make a global impact through local service. Any Scout who completes a noteworthy service project and logs it in Scoutbook using the “Messengers of Peace” tag qualifies for this international award. Is your unit planning a project that promotes peace, sustainability, or well-being? You might already be on the path.


[Learn More About It]

Camp T. Brady Saunders Voted The Best

#1 Summer Camp


The votes are in, and it’s official — Camp T. Brady Saunders has been named The Best Summer Camp of 2025 in the Richmond Times-Dispatch “The Best” competition! This recognition is a true testament to the passion, dedication, and community spirit that make Camp TBS such a special place. Thank you to everyone who voted and continues to support Scouting. Together, we’ve shown that there’s no place quite like Camp T. Brady Saunders!


[See What the Buzz Is All About - Pre-Register for 2026!]

🍂 Does Your Unit Have A New Member Coordinator?


A New Member Coordinator (NMC) is a volunteer whose role is to welcome new families into Scouting and help them feel connected right from the start. Joining a new unit can feel overwhelming, and the NMC serves as a friendly guide, answering questions, introducing people, and making sure new Scouts and their families feel at home. By easing the transition for new families, New Member Coordinators play a vital part in making Scouting welcoming, fun, and sustainable for the future.


[Learn About New Member Coordinators]

Membership & Unit Renewal


Unit & Membership Renewal is in full swing, and we're working hard to ensure a smooth process for our units, and the parents and volunteers they serve. Our Unit & Membership Renewal page has been updated with easy-to-follow steps (images and a PDF), as well as our Renewal Handbook, a handy flowchart, and several specific renewal guides for individual memberships, parents of youth to be renewed, and payment options. Mark your calendars, as unit renewals are DUE by December 31st!


[Learn All About It]

Recruitment & New Membership

Scoutbook Announcement for Parents & Leaders


Scoutbook Plus has begun warning parents/guardians who are not connected to their children in Akela, the membership database, that their connections must be validated by December 31, 2025, or their access will become limited. These relationships are the ones that control membership renewals and registrations. Also, Scouting America has begun sending direct text reminders to members about upcoming renewals. These helpful reminders will start going out 45 days before the membership expires. Taking action if and when you receive messaging from Scoutbook Plus or Scouting America about membership issues will ensure a smooth and painless Unit Renewal process each year.

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!]

2026 Season Pass for the Heart of Virginia Council Savings for Everyone in 2026


Effective June 1st, the Heart of Virginia Council introduced 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.


[Learn All About It]

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]

BeAScout Unit Pins

Key 3: It's Time to Update!


There are lots of different ways to recruit new members to Scouting. One of the easiest and most valuable is to make sure your unit’s information is up-to-date at BeAScout.org, the official BSA site that allows members of the public to find Scouting units near them. The BeAScout website allows anyone to search for a Cub Scout pack, Scouts BSA troop, Venturing crew, Sea Scout ship or Exploring post by zip code. We call the search results “pins” because they’re displayed on a web page that looks like pins on a map.


[Learn More About It!]

Recruitment Materials Webpage


The Heart of Virginia Council Recruitment Materials page offers a variety of tools to help units grow their membership. Resources include printable peer-to-peer recruitment card templates, custom unit-specific QR codes, and direct BeAScout.org joining links to streamline the sign-up process. Leaders will also find helpful guides for planning effective recruitment events, promoting their unit, and using social media to reach new families. Whether you're organizing a Pack night or building an online presence, this page has what you need to succeed.


[Check It Out!]

Members Due to Renew Report


Hey Commissioners! Recruiting new families brings energy and growth to our units, but retaining the families we already have is just as important. Every Scout or leader who renews means one more person is continuing their journey in Scouting by building skills, friendships, and memories that last a lifetime. By regularly reviewing the Members Due to Renew report and following up with those whose memberships are about to expire, Commissioners help units maintain strong, healthy programs and ensure no one slips away simply because of a missed deadline.


[Get the Quick Guide to View This Report]

Fundraising & Scholarships

Glow Trail Run 5K Race Results


The 3rd Annual Glow Trail Run 5K, presented by Virginia Family Dentistry and professionally timed by Commonwealth Timing, was a glowing success! Runners and walkers came from across Central Virginia (and even out of state) to participate in this exciting event at Camp T. Brady Saunders, taking to the trails in the pitch black. It's said that Scouts go the extra mile, so even a well-meaning helper sending our participants off their route and turning a 5K into a 4-miler, didn't dull our shine. In fact, it was a happy accident that turned our amazing Creepy Hollow Cub Scouts into our biggest and most enthusiastic cheering squad! Thank you for supporting our race!


[See Your 5K Race Results]

Jon-Christian Carroll Memorial Eagle Scout Scholarship


The Jon-Christian Carroll Memorial Eagle Scout Scholarship is established to honor the legacy of Jon-Christian “Jon-Jon” Carroll, a beloved Son, Brother, Friend, Eagle Scout and United States Marine who prematurely departed this world in 2020. He is missed dearly by all who knew him. Jon-Jon began his Scouting career as a Cub Scout in Pack 544 later transitioning to Troop 544 and attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. Jon-Jon attended the first National Jamboree held at the Summit Bechtel Reserve and numerous summer camps. He loved Scouting and being active in his troop. This scholarship aims to support Eagle Scouts who demonstrate exceptional leadership, community service, and academic achievement.


[Learn More & Apply]

🍂 2026 NESA Scholarships

Window Opens December 1st


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]

Cub Scouts

Calling All Cub Scouts to Spread Holiday Cheer

Write Holiday Letters to our Military Members


Scouting America has partnered with two national organizations to ensure Cub Scouts’ heartfelt letters reach troops stationed around the world. For a limited time, the 2025 Cub Scout Holiday Letters for the Military is an official part of the citizenship adventure for all ranks. Scouts are asked to complete their letters by November 7, 2025.


[Learn More]

🍂 Cub Scout Day Camp

Save the Date for June 1st–5th, 2026


Summon Thy Courage, and Save the Date for June 1st–5th, 2026, and join us at Deep Run Park for our annual Day Camp for Cub Scouts! Cub Scout Day Camp is a unique program; it is usually the first major activity for Scouts after graduating from their previous rank. At Day Camp, Scouts begin to work toward their next rank in the Cub Scout program, and we use the same ranks to identify age groups as your “home pack.” Again this year, we’re welcoming non-Scout buddies to join in on the fun, as well!


[Summon Thy Courage]

Recruiter Strip for Cub Scouts

The Most Important Patch in Cub Scouts!


The Arrow of Light badge of rank marks a major milestone in a Cub Scout’s growth. The senior patrol leader badge represents one of the most important positions of responsibility in a Scouts BSA troop. And the Eagle Scout award symbolizes an incredible journey of perseverance. But when considering the array of Scouting awards and recognitions available to young people, you can make the argument that one of them stands above all the others. If you think about its ability to grow Scouting and introduce this life-changing program to new people, the Recruiter Strip might be the most important patch in Scouting.


[How to Earn a FREE Recruiter Strip]

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!


  • Nov. 7: Scoutbook
  • Nov. 14: Family & Reverence Adventures Across Ranks
  • Nov. 21: Citizenship Adventures Across Ranks


Did you miss the episode on October 24th where we talked about "How to Welcome New Cub Scout Leaders?" Catch up on the archives using the link below.


[Tune In to Cub Chat Live]

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!


[Plan Your Weekend Experience]

Scouts BSA, Exploring, Venturing, & Sea Scouts

🍂 Winterfest Registration Opens November 14th

February 6th—8th, 2026


Winterfest is an exciting, fun-filled, and competitive event for Explorers, Venturers, Sea Scouts & older youth registered in Scouts BSA troops. Winterfest is an action-packed 2-day event filled with competitions, aquatic and STEM events, shooting sports, climbing, sports tournaments and more! Many events are related to various career fields such as Fire Service, Law Enforcement, and EMS.


[Learn More About Winterfest]

🍂 2026 Section E9 Conclave

Event for the Order of the Arrow (OA)


Registration for the 2026 E9 Conclave is OPEN! Get ready for an action-packed weekend at Camp T. Brady Saunders during the premier Scouting event in Virginia, Conclave. Join over 1,000 Arrowmen and partake in top-notch training, compete in quest, check out our next-level shows, and gather in brotherhood for a weekend of fun and fellowship. This very special OA event takes place April 24th–26th, 2026!


[Join in on the fun at Conclave!]

Camp T. Brady Saunders 2026 Summer Camp

Hold-A-Spot Pre-Registration is Open


The tarps might have finally dried, that missing blue card has just been located, and the last of the snack wrappers have been discovered in your day packs after the 2025 Summer Camp season, but we know it's never too early to be prepared! Pre-registration is officially open for Summer Camp 2026 at Camp T. Brady Saunders.


[Pre-Register Today!]

🍂 Winter Camp 2026

Merit Badge Materials Available November 3rd


Scouts can look forward to an unforgettable adventure at Camp T. Brady Saunders at our 2026 Winter Camp, and the wait for the Merit Badge Guide is almost over! The full lineup of badges and schedules will be released on November 3rd, giving participants plenty to get excited about. While registration is now closed, we’re still seeking enthusiastic volunteers and merit badge counselors to help make Winter Camp the coolest event of the season. Staff receive a hoodie, patch, indoor housing, and free meals. Join the fun and help create lasting memories!


[Visit the Winter Camp Webpage]

Days of Vikings Fall Camporee

November 21st—23rd


Prepare for adventure at the Days of Vikings Camporee, November 21st–23rd, at Cub Adventure Camp! This epic weekend for Scouts BSA Troops and Arrow of Light Scouts will feature Viking-themed challenges like archery, tomahawk throwing, longboat racing, and more. Show your spirit in the cooking and attire competitions, then test your skills in games and contests worthy of a true Norse hero. Don’t miss this chance to live the legend—get your unit signed up today!



[Register for the Camporee]

New Merit Badge Resources Are Here


Scouts now have access to fresh videos, guides, and online tools to make earning merit badges easier and more engaging than ever. Recently updated badges include Nuclear Science, Sustainability, Exploration, Genealogy, Painting, Sculpture, Dog Care, Fingerprinting, Scholarship, Robotics, Insect Study, Mammal Study, Environmental Science, Graphic Arts, Music, Pets, Family Life, Bird Study, Nature, Animation, Reptile & Amphibian Study, Digital Technology, Home Repairs, Camping, and Hiking. At the Merit Badge Hub, you can download pamphlets, view requirements, watch instructional videos, and find everything needed to support your Scouting journey.


[Visit the Hub]

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, 2026.


[Learn More and Make an ESSPY Nomination]

Cybersecurity & AI Merit Badges


Scouting America is introducing two innovative merit badges–Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence! These badges reflect Scouting’s commitment to preparing youth for the digital age. The AI Merit Badge introduces Scouts to the evolving world of artificial intelligence, exploring applications, ethics, and its role in daily life. The Cybersecurity Merit Badge equips Scouts with the skills to stay safe online and navigate today’s digital landscape responsibly. Merit badge requirements will be available on the Merit Badge page soon!


[See All the Available Merit Badges]

The Lookout Sea Scout Podcast Network

Featuring Reef Points and Man Overboard


The Lookout is the Sea Scout Podcast Network featuring two shows: Reef Points, focusing on programs and activities for Sea Scouts BSA; and Man Overboard, a discussion podcast between Sea Scouts about their adventures on the water. The duties of a vessel's lookout are to keep a continuous watch of the sea. Our Lookout is here to report on activities for Sea Scouts and maritime opportunities for youth. The Lookout Sea Scout Podcast is maintained by the National Sea Scout Support Committee.


[Listen In!]

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.


Nov. 12: Scouting is a worldwide movement! In this #TroopTalkLive, we’ll explore how Scouts can connect with other Scouts across the world through international events such as jamborees, camps, virtual meetups and Messengers of Peace projects.


[Tune In]

Exploring Live Hour

Next Meeting is November 12th


The National Exploring Live Hour is a monthly Zoom video conference that will help engage and equip Exploring volunteers and professionals to grow, support, and learn more about Exploring. The live hours will include sharing best practices and ideas that are happening within our councils, highlighting successful growth campaigns, and inspiring new ideas through various trainings. In November, they will discuss Exploring Program Resources, Awards & Recognition.


[Get the 2025 Schedule]

[Register for the Zoom]

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]

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!]

Training Opportunities

Spring 2026 Wood Badge

April & May 2026


Wood Badge is the premier leadership training for all registered adult Scout leaders, blending Scouting traditions with modern leadership skills. Over two weekends (April 17–19 and May 16–17, 2026) at Cub Adventure Camp, participants build teamwork, leadership, and organizational skills in a fun, hands-on environment. Along the way, they form lasting friendships and grow as impactful leaders. Registration is officially open!


[Wood Badge Page]

S.A.F.E. Guarding Youth Training

Replaces Youth Protection Training


Scouting America has launched S.A.F.E. Guarding Youth Training, replacing the former Youth Protection Training (YPT). This new 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]

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?]

Spring IOLS & BALOO

Save the Date for April 11th–12th


Ready to take your Scouting skills to the next level? Scout BSA’s Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (IOLS) and Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) are essential and required training programs designed to equip leaders with the tools they need to guide Scouts in the great outdoors. Add our Spring 2026 IOLS and BALOO training to your calendar, and look out for registration to open soon.


[Visit Our Training Page]

Adult Leadership Awards

Nominations Are Open for the Silver Beaver Award


The Heart of Virginia Council’s highest volunteer recognition, the Silver Beaver Award, will be awarded to four highly deserving Scouters. These Scouters have made a huge impact in the lives of youth through their hard work, self-sacrifice, and years of dedicated service. Introduced in 1931, the Silver Beaver award is a BSA Council-level distinguished service award. We are proud to present this special award to deserving volunteers each year. Nominations are open for 2025 recipients, and are due by November 30th!


[Make a Nomination]

Nominate a Silver Antelope Award Recipient


Do you know a Scouting volunteer whose impact reaches far beyond their local council? The Silver Antelope Award honors registered Scouters who have shown exceptional character and distinguished service to youth at the territory level. Since 1942, this prestigious award has recognized those whose leadership and dedication have strengthened the Scouting movement across entire regions of our country.


[Learn More]

Den Leader Training Award


Whether you're guiding Lions, Tigers, Wolves, Bears, or Webelos, being a Den Leader takes heart, creativity, and commitment. The Den Leader’s Training Award recognizes your incredible impact and your dedication to delivering a fun, safe, and meaningful Cub Scout experience. To earn this square knot, Den Leaders must:


✔️ Complete position-specific training

✔️ Serve for at least one full year in the role

✔️ Attend four Roundtables or University of Scouting

✔️ Lead a well-rounded program that supports advancement and family involvement


[Learn More About Leadership Awards]

Scouter's Training Award


You may already be on the path to earning the Scouter’s Training Award, a prestigious recognition of your dedication and service. This award is more than a knot on your uniform, it’s a testament to your commitment to Scouting values, youth leadership, and personal growth. To earn this square knot, you must:


✔️ Complete basic training

✔️ Serve for two years in your role

✔️ Attend four Roundtables per year or University of Scouting

✔️ Deliver a quality program


[Learn More About Leadership Awards]

Scouter's Key Award


If you’re a Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, Skipper, or Advisor, the Scouter’s Key Award honors your leadership in delivering an outstanding program—and inspiring youth to reach their full potential.  This isn’t a participation patch. It’s a symbol of excellence. To earn this square knot, you must:


✔️ Serve in your primary leader role for three years

✔️ Complete position-specific training

✔️ Attend at least four Roundtable meetings or University of Scouting each year


[Learn More About Leadership Awards]

Scout Shop

2026 Scouting America Ornaments

Limited Supply In Sock


'Tis the season for decking the halls, and the Scout Shop has officially released the 2026 Scouting America Ornaments in limited supply. With just 16 ornaments in each style, these are going to go fast. Swing by the Scout Shop at 8090 Villa Park Drive in Henrico to claim yours today.


Don't forget to browse the full shop for stocking stuffers and holiday gifts (from pocket knives to cast iron) for everyone on your list!

Your Pinewood Derby Pit Stop


On your marks, get set, GO! Pinewood Derby season is just around the corner, and the Heart of Virginia Council Scout Shop is your Pit Stop for car kits, decals, accessories, awards, medals, and patches.


Pre-order your official Pinewood Derby Car Kits by visiting us at 8090 Villa Park Drive in Henrico, or by emailing us at scoutshophovc@scouting.org, and stock up on 2026 PWD Patches by completing and returning an official order form.


[Download the Patch Form for 2026]

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]

Unit Flag Orders


Whether you're replacing an old and tattered unit flag, or you want one with the new Scouting America logo, all unit flag purchases now go through Carrot-Top Industries. Create a customized flag on their website, linked below, utilizing the new Scouting America branding.


[Snag a Flag]

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]

Council & District News

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]

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]

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]

Recognition, Memorials & Honors

The Eagle's Nest


Eagle Scout is the highest achievement or rank attainable in the Scouting America program. Only four percent of Scouts achieve this remarkable milestone. The Eagle's Nest celebrates the accomplishments of those Scouts who have attained that highest rank in Scouting.


[Visit the Eagle's Nest]


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]

Connect

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.


[Leave a Review]


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.


[Get the News]

Rate, Review & Follow!


Have you recently visited Camp T. Brady Saunders or Cub Adventure Camp? We hope you’ve had an amazing time and invite you to rate, review, and follow us. Your feedback helps us improve and ensure every visit is unforgettable!


[Cub Adventure Camp on Facebook]

[Cub Adventure Camp Google Reviews]

[Camp T. Brady Saunders on Facebook]

[Camp T. Brady Saunders Google Reviews]



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Contact

Heart of Virginia Council: (804) 355-4306

Scout Shop: (804) 204-2628

8090 Villa Park Drive, Henrico, VA 23228


Scouts First Helpline

Call or Text Anonymously 24/7


(844) SCOUTS1 |  (844) 726-8871 | scoutsfirst@scouting.org


Prepared. For Life.