❄️ Breaking and updated news is denoted with a snowflake!
| | | |
❄️ Incident Reporting Helps
For Adult Audiences
Timely and complete incident reporting provides Scouting America with an opportunity for analysis of incidents that occur and promotes continuous improvement of our programs. In our experience, the sooner a clear, concise, and complete incident report is made, the sooner that an appropriate response to the incident can occur. Learn why, when, and how to make an incident report by visiting the link below.
[Be A Safe Scout]
| | | |
Scout Shop Inventory Closure
The Scout Shop will close for its annual inventory on Monday December 29th and Tuesday the 30th, opening again at noon on Wednesday, December 31st. Please plan your shopping for December awards accordingly!
Did you know you can use the Scout Shop Online Order Request Tool and order for pickup in store, curbside or have it shipped to you?
[Place An Online Scout Shop Order]
| |
🚨 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]
| | | | |
❄️ December 18th Update to Council Merger
At the Heart of Virginia Council (HOVC) and across our region, our mission is to give every young person the opportunity to be a part of our program and instill in them the character and leadership skills needed to succeed based on the Scout Oath and Scout Law. To this end, over the past nine months, HOVC and the Colonial Virginia Council (CVC), headquartered in Newport News, have looked at ways we can work together to recruit more youth and improve the Scouting experience for our existing Scouts. Together, the leadership of both Councils have decided that a merger would be a successful and logical way to fulfill this mission.
[Read the 12/18/25 Update]
| |
🚨 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]
| | | | |
❄️ 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]
| |
2026 Camp Card Pre-Sale & Registration
Open Now!
Looking for an easy fundraising opportunity? Camp Cards are a great way to raise dollars for your unit and can also be used to provide the necessary funds needed for spring and summer camping programs! After a successful 2025 Camp Card fundraiser, the Product Sale Committee of the Heart of Virginia Council will continue the $10 Camp Card for 2026. There are 4 big reasons the $10 card was successful…
[Read All About It & Register]
| | | | |
We're Hiring for Our 2026 Summer Camp Team!
The Heart of Virginia Council is now recruiting staff for the 2026 summer camp season at their camps, including Camp T. Brady Saunders, Cub Adventure Camp, and our local Cub Scout Day Camp at Deep Run Park. Open positions span kitchen & dining, aquatics, program & adventure, COPE & climbing, trading post, Trailblazer and S.T.E.M. Area staff, and more. If you’re ready for a fun and meaningful summer working outdoors and supporting Scouts in a dynamic environment, download the application today and join the team. Returning team members, don't forget to apply now for your favorite jobs!
[Get the Details!]
| |
❄️ National Jamboree Public Safety Staff Needed!
July 19th–31st, 2026
What makes the National Jamboree truly unforgettable? The people who bring it to life. The 2026 National Jamboree is seeking passionate Scouters to join the staff team and help deliver a world-class, life-changing experience for thousands of Scouts. We’re especially looking for volunteers with experience in emergency medical services, firefighting, law enforcement, and emergency management to share hands-on programs and demonstrations. If you love Scouting, thrive on teamwork, and want to inspire the next generation, this is your chance to be part of something historic. To register go to: https://jamboree.scouting.org/staff/ and choose Mission Ready Medicine as your area of interest. Questions? Feel free to contact Bob Parker.
| | | | |
❄️ America250 Nationwide Student Essay Contest
America's Field Trip, Due March 30th
America’s Field Trip is a nationwide contest inviting students in grades 3–12 to share their perspectives on what America means to them as we prepare to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary. Students may submit writing or original artwork responding to the prompt, “What does America mean to you?” This expanded program will award 250 students with unforgettable behind-the-scenes field trips to iconic historic and cultural landmarks or a cash prize. It’s a unique opportunity for young voices to be heard while connecting with America’s past, present, and future.
[Get the Details]
| |
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]
| | | | |
A Cub Scout's Duty to God
Reverence Adventures & Passports for Each Rank
Each Cub Scout rank includes a Duty to God adventure, encouraging Scouts to explore their faith, talk with their families about their beliefs, and practice reverence through service or gratitude. These adventures can be completed at home with a parent or discussed respectfully in a den setting. They’re a meaningful way to help young Scouts grow spiritually while honoring the beliefs of others this holiday season.
[Visit the Cub Hub]
[Get the 2025 Reverence Passports]
[Duty to God: Reverence Hub]
| |
❄️ Scout Sunday Services & Patch
Sunday, February 8th
Scout Sunday 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]
| | | | |
❄️ Scout Shabbat Services
Friday, February 6th
Scout Shabbat is a Jewish Scouting observance that invites Scouts and their families to celebrate faith, service, and ethical living during a Shabbat worship service. Observed around the annual Scout Sunday weekend, Scout Shabbat highlights the shared values between Judaism and Scouting, including leadership, community service, and tikkun olam (repairing the world). It is a meaningful opportunity for Jewish Scouts to live out the Scout Oath’s Duty to God within their own faith tradition. Scout Shabbat also offers congregations a chance to recognize the positive impact Scouting has on youth and families.
[Learn About Scout Shabbat]
| | |
❄️ National Duty to God Award Nominations
Due February 28th
The National Duty to God Award recognizes adult individuals who have demonstrated an exemplary history of transformational leadership in supporting and promoting the spiritual foundation of Scouting. It acknowledges the unswerving dedication to faith, fellowship, and national service of those whose character embodies the moral principles and shared ideals of Scouting. Nominations are open to candidates from all faiths and religious groups chartered by the Scouting America.
[Get the Details]
| | | | | |
Duty to God: Reverence Hub
The Heart of Virginia Council’s Duty to God: Reverence Hub provides Scouting families and leaders with resources to honor the principle of reverence in a respectful, inclusive way. The site offers a calendar of religious observances to help planners schedule activities that honor varying faith traditions. It also shares information on faith-specific religious emblems and awards, chaplain and chaplain aide roles, and guidance for conducting interfaith services and ceremonies. The hub is a comprehensive commitment to spiritual growth and interfaith understanding in Scouting, and can be found on our website.
[Visit the Reverence Hub]
| | Fundraising & Scholarships | |
🚨 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. Applications must be submitted by December 31st.
[Learn More & Apply]
| | | | |
2026 NESA Scholarships
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]
| |
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]
| | | Recruitment & New Membership | | | |
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]
| |
Cub Scout Polar Bear Award
Are You Tough Enough?
Cold weather won’t stop a true Scout! The Polar Bear Award recognizes Cub Scouts who brave the winter elements and experience the adventure of cold-weather camping. The Polar Bear Award is typically a temporary insignia patch, worn on the left pocket, or sewn onto a blanket, jacket, or other Scouting keepsake. The Heart of Virginia Council Scout Shop has plenty of Polar Bear Award patches in stock!
[Visit the Scout Shop Page]
| | | | |
❄️ 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!]
| |
Castle Quest 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]
| | | | |
Scout Life Magazine Arcade
Anytime! Anywhere! Any Device!
Have some downtime this holiday season? Play fun, safe games on your tablet, smartphone or computer over at the Scout Life Arcade. Experience the thrill of competitive cycling with "Bike Blitz," help your mouse buddy find his friends in "Cheese Patrol 2: Cat Attack!," use your gravity controls to escape the space station with "Gravity Botz," beat the pinball high score with "Becca's Blast-Off Pinball," and so much more! What's your favorite game?
[Visit the Arcade]
| |
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!
-
Jan. 9: Getting Over the Holiday Lull
Did you miss the episode on December 19th where we talked about Fitness Across Ranks? 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 | |
❄️Scouts BSA Advancement Updates
Effective January 1st
We’re excited to share the planned improvements to Scouts BSA merit badge requirements that will take effect on January 1, 2026. These updates will help Scouts explore modern career paths and hobbies, develop practical skills, and engage with current topics while maintaining the quality and tradition of the Scouting advancement program. These changes are tentative; additional changes may occur before January 1st, 2026.
[Read All About It]
| | | | |
❄️ Winter Camp 2026 Spots are Open!
Merit Badge Materials Available
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 have been released, and can be found on the Winter Camp webpage! 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. Spots have opened up... join the fun and help create lasting memories!
[Visit the Winter Camp Webpage]
| |
❄️ 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!]
| | | | |
❄️ 2025 Eagle Scout Commencement
Randolph-Macon College, February 22nd, 2026
The Heart of Virginia Council invites you to celebrate the outstanding Scouts who earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 2025 at the Eagle Scout Commencement, held on Sunday, February 22nd, 2026, at Randolph-Macon College. All 2025 Eagle Scouts are invited to attend free of charge, along with their parents and Scoutmaster. As in years past, there will be campus tours, openings for the Life Scout Honor Guard, and opportunities for families to celebrate their Eagle with personalized program messages. Registration is officially open!
[Eagle Scout Commencement Webpage]
| |
Winterfest Registration Is Open
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 James River Klondike Derby
February 13th–15th
Get ready for a weekend of winter adventure, teamwork, and Scout skill challenges at Camp T. Brady Saunders, February 13–15, 2026. Patrols will pull sleds through the woods, test their Scoutcraft skills, and earn gold nuggets to spend in a fun auction on Saturday night. The event is open to Cub Scouts, Webelos/AOL Scouts, Scouts BSA, and Venturers, with special day-only pricing for Cub Scouts. Don’t miss this chance to brave the cold, race for gold, and experience one of the James River District's favorite traditions.
[Hit the Trail!]
| |
❄️ The Roman Empire Klondike Derby
February 27th through March 1st
The tradition of a youth led Klondike Derby continues! Troop 706-B from the James River District, the winners of the 2025 Derby, are hosting the 2026 event. Everything from the event theme and patch design to every single activity station is designed and planned by Scouts so you know your youth will have a blast. Let your adult leaders relax around the campfire while host Troop 706-B and their team take your Scouts on the adventure of a lifetime and crown a brand-new Klondike Derby Winner. The event is limited to 24 teams, so register today!
[Register Today!]
| | | | |
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!]
| |
Family Troop Option
In a letter published by Scouting America in November, Chief Scout Executive Roger Crone announced that the Family Troop Pilot program was a success, and that Family Troops were now an option for units struggling to maintain boy-only or girl-only membership. While the vast majority of troops will continue to specifically serve boys or girls in the years ahead, this option gives chartered organizations the ability to meet the unique needs of their communities and families who want to do Scouting together in a unit.
[Read the Full Letter]
| | | | |
Camp T. Brady Saunders 2026 Summer Camp
Hold-A-Spot Pre-Registration is Open
The summer gear may be packed away, and that long-lost blue card rediscovered, but the Scouting calendar never really slows down. With Winter Camp just around the corner, now is the perfect time to take inventory, restock essentials, and start thinking ahead to next summer’s adventures. A little preparation now means fewer surprises later and a smoother trail into the 2026 camping season. Pre-registration is officially open for Summer Camp 2026 at Camp T. Brady Saunders.
[Pre-Register Today!]
| |
❄️ New to Merit Badge Test Lab: Psychology!
This badge takes you on an exciting journey to understand how psychology impacts everyday life and leadership. You’ll learn about famous psychologists and their contributions, create and perform a skit showing psychology in action, explore mental health and resilience, and track your own activities and emotions to see how they shape your well-being. Along the way, you’ll practice empathy, reflect on the Scout Oath and Law, and even design your own pledge to inspire hope and support in your community. Finally, dive into career paths in psychology and discover what it takes to succeed in this fascinating field. Expand your mind, build resilience, and make a difference—start your Psychology Badge adventure today!
[Join the Test Lab!]
| | | | |
The Venturing Ranger Award
The Venturing Ranger Award is Scouting’s premier high-adventure achievement, earned by Venturers who demonstrate exceptional skill and leadership in the outdoors. To qualify, Venturers complete eight core requirements and select four challenging electives ranging from mountaineering and cave exploration to scuba, equestrian skills, and more. The award goes far beyond technical skills, emphasizing resilience, teamwork, and living the Scout Oath and Law in the backcountry. Recipients earn a distinctive silver medal featuring a compass rose, symbolizing direction, mastery, and a spirit of adventure.
[Learn More!]
| | | |
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.
-
Jan. 14th: Updates to Merit Badges & Advancement Resources
-
Feb 11th: TBD
[Tune In]
| | | | |
Exploring Live Hour
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. The 2026 schedule will be announced soon!
[Visit the Live Hour Page]
| |
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!]
| | | |
Are You Fully Trained?
Visit My.Scouting Today to Confirm
If you haven’t yet completed your required courses, now’s the moment to act. Being a trained leader ensures our Scouts have safe, high-quality experiences, and that you have the confidence to lead them! Every registered adult should complete the following required courses to be considered position-trained and ready for recharter. Being fully trained means you've completed SAFE Guarding Youth training (SYT), Hazardous Weather training, and your position-specific training.
[Confirm Your Training]
| |
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? Scouts 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]
| |
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 Inventory Closure
The Scout Shop will close for its annual inventory on December 29th and 30th, opening again at noon on December 31st. Please plan your shopping for December awards accordingly!
Did you know you can use the Scout Shop Online Order Request Tool and order for pickup in store, curbside or have it shipped to you?
[Place An Online Scout Shop Order]
| |
Gifts for Every Scout On Your List
From Tee Shirts to Memory Boxes
Nothing beats a fresh shirt! We have class b (activity) tees for Scouts of all ranks, including fun glow-in-the-dark Cub Scout shirts and Eagle Scout designs. Need sleeves? Warm up your late fall and winter adventures with sweatshirts and jackets in all sizes. Plus, stuff your Scout's stockings with new socks, fun water bottles, camping accessories, and ornaments. Plus, pick up a program-specific memory box to store all of your advancements, neckerchiefs, special projects, and other Scouting memorabilia. These long-lasting, quality boxes are a great way to present gifts! Visit us at 8090 Villa Park Drive in Henrico to browse.
| | | | |
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]
| | | | |
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]
| |
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]
| | | 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]
| | | | |
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]
| | | | | |
