Hello, Heart of Virginia! | | |
Diabetes
Very likely, someone in your unit has diabetes—a medical condition that disrupts the body’s ability to control blood sugar. Potentially life-threatening problems might occur if and when their blood sugar gets too high or too low. Scouts with diabetes can safely participate in all Scouting activities by planning ahead and communicating with leaders. This includes developing a diabetes action plan with parents, ensuring adequate supplies are on hand, and knowing how to manage blood sugar levels during outdoor adventures. By being prepared, Scouts with diabetes can fully enjoy the fun and challenges of the program.
[Scout Safety Moment]
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Unit Program Planning Party (UP3)
May 7th
Get ready for a night of Scouting fun at UP3 on Wednesday, May 7th! This annual event is your one-stop shop for energizing your unit’s programming with over 16 featured areas, including summer camp previews, NYLT, STEM, fundraising, outdoor ethics, and more. Explore the Cub Midway, race on the Pinewood Derby track, meet Scouting-friendly vendors, and enjoy fellowship with other leaders. Don’t miss the return of the Richlands Dairy hand-dipped ice cream truck for a sweet treat while you browse!
[May 7th UP3]
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RUST Work Day: Platforms & Tents at TBS
May 10th
We are looking for volunteers to come out and lend a helping hand at our Goochland Scout Reservation. We need people who have skills to help get platforms and frames back together for camp. Please bring with you BSA Medical parts A and B, work gloves, and anything else that may help us in the quest to get things done.
[Come Out and Lend a Hand!]
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Tournament of Eagles Presented by Patriot Industries
May 19th
Join us on Monday, May 19th at The Country Club of Virginia for a day of golf, fellowship, and fundraising to support Scouting in Central Virginia. This Captain’s Choice format tournament welcomes golfers of all skill levels, with sponsorship opportunities available to showcase your support for local Scouting. All teams will play on the James River Course, a scenic and challenging course recognized by Golf Digest—but spots are limited, so early registration is encouraged! Participants will enjoy lunch, awards, giveaways, and the chance to make a lasting impact on youth in our community.
[Learn More & Register]
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IOLS & BALOO: Free Training for Adult Leaders
May 24th–25th
There's one final opportunity to complete your Introduction to Outdoor Skills (IOLS) and Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) this spring, ahead of your unit's summertime adventures! Each Pack must have at least one BALOO-trained adult present on every overnight camping event, and IOLS is required for Scoutmasters, Assistant Scoutmasters, and Venturing Crew Advisors of units engaging in outdoor programs. IOLS is also a prerequisite for Scoutmaster Specific Training.
[IOLS] [BALOO]
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Annual Recognition Gala & Silver Beaver Presentation
May 29th
The Silver Beaver Award is the Council's highest volunteer recognition, presented to highly deserving Scouters at our Annual Recognition Gala at the Rockville Center on May 29th at 6:30pm. We hope you'll join us as we recognize these individuals, and many others, for the impact they've made in the lives of youth here in Central Virginia through volunteer service and the donation of time, energy, talents, and experience. Visit the Silver Beaver page to celebrate our Class of 2024 recipients and register to attend!
[Silver Beaver Page]
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Swim & Water Rescue / Red Cross Lifeguard Training
May 30th–June 1st
Become certified to lead aquatic adventures with the Swim and Water Rescue / Red Cross Lifeguard Class, held May 31–June 1 at Camp T. Brady Saunders. This weekend-long training equips participants to supervise swimming activities and conduct swim tests for their unit. Open to BSA-registered individuals age 15 and older who can pass the swimmer classification test, this course includes both hands-on and online prerequisites. The $150 fee covers all instruction, and a minimum of five participants is required.
[Register Here!]
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2026 Season Pass for the Heart of Virginia Council
Effective June 1st
Starting June 1st, 2025, the Heart of Virginia Council will 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—plus a 10% year-round discount at the Scout Shop. 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]
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National Youth Leadership Training
June 8th–14th
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) is a premier leadership experience for Scouts, equipping them with the skills to lead both in Scouting and beyond. Over an action-packed week, participants engage in hands-on activities, challenges, and team-based learning, all centered around what a leader must BE, KNOW, and DO. Held in an outdoor setting, NYLT brings leadership to life through real-world application, preparing youth to take on greater responsibilities in their troops, crews, and communities. Are you ready to lead?
[Secure Your Spot]
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Now Hiring Our Summer Camp Staff
We have numerous employment openings at our Summer Camps at both T. Brady Saunders and Cub Adventure Camp, and our Cub Scout Day Camps. Paid and internship opportunities are available for applicants 16 years of age and older.
Must-Fill Positions Include:
- STEM Instructors (18 years of age and older)
- Waterfront Instructors (16 years of age and older)
- ... and more!
[Learn More & Apply]
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Monthly Payment Plan
for New Scouts and Adult Leaders
Starting June 1st the Heart of Virginia Council offers 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!]
| | Fundraising & Scholarships | |
Jon-Christian Carroll Memorial Eagle Scout Scholarship
The Jon-Christan 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]
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Summertime Scout Nights Are on the Calendar!
Scout Nights are here, and they're bringing fun and community spirit to benefit Scouts in the Heart of Virginia Council! Kick off the season with the Tri-City Chili Peppers on Saturday, June 28th, at Shepherd Stadium. Then, head to the Diamond on Friday, July 25th for Scout Night at the Diamond with the Richmond Flying Squirrels, where you can catch a baseball game and cheer on our team. Fulfil your need for speed at the Scout Summer Experience at the Richmond Raceway August 14th–16th! Finally, cap off the series on Saturday, September 20th at Scout Night with the Richmond Kickers—an action-packed soccer event that's sure to thrill. All proceeds from these events go directly to supporting the programs and adventures of our Scouts.
[Get Your Tickets Today!]
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Camp Card Fundraiser Update
It's not too late to participate in the Camp Card fundraiser. There are about 7,000 cards remaining, but they are selling fast with this year's great deals! 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!For every 10 Camp Card sold, Scouts get their name in a drawing for some COOL prizes! The Camp Card Fundraiser ENDS May 31st, and final payments are due June 6th.
[Read All About It & Register]
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FREE Slushies at Summer Camp?!
Camp Card Bonus Prize Alert
Scouts have a cool new incentive to sell Camp Cards this year—FREE Slushies at Summer Camp for Top Sellers. The top-selling Scout in each district and the top-selling Pack and Troop will enjoy this refreshing reward during their week at Summer Camp at either Cub Adventure Camp or Camp T. Brady Saunders. Don’t miss out—Early Bird sales end April 11, and the Camp Card Sale runs through May 31!
[Crush the Camp Card Sale!]
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Register Your Unit for the Fall Popcorn & Peanut Fundraiser
It’s important to efficiently, safely and easily raise funds for your unit. We will provide tools and training, so your unit can exceed your goals, and Scouts and units can earn great incentives! Register for the sale so you can reserve your Unit's fundraising materials. Sign up for one of the kick-off events where you will learn new information about the sale and pick-up your materials. Register today! The official sale kicks off August 22nd.
[Pop Over to PopcornVirginia.org]
[Grab Your Product Sale Tees]
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Cub Scout Summer Camp
Return to the Old West
Howdy, partners! This summer, Cub Scouts are saddling up for an unforgettable adventure at Cub Adventure Camp— and our rootin’-tootin’ theme is Return to the Old West (a steampunk mystery you'll solve by going back in time)! To help spread the word, we’ve called in none other than Wild West legend Pecos Bill himself! He’s here to tell our Cub Scout families all about the thrills of Cub Camp—straight from the dusty trail. Happy Trails and Happy Scouting!
[Learn more from Pecos Bill]
[Register for Cub Summer Camp today!]
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Deep Run Day Camp for Cub Scouts
June 9th–13th
Cub Scout Day Camp is often called “the camp that comes to the Scout.” Day Camp is an organized program for Cub Scouts and Webelos Scouts under certified leadership, at Deep Run Park in Richmond. 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.” We welcome non-Scout buddies to join in on the fun, as well!
[Register Today!]
[Volunteer Your Time]
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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 2: STEM Series: Math Elective Adventures Across Ranks
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May 9: STEM Series: Engineering Elective Adventures Across Ranks
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May 15: New Den Meeting Resources Card Deck
Did you miss the April 25th STEM Series broadcast about Science Electives? Follow the link below to tune in to the archives.
[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!
[Plan Your Weekend Experience]
| | | Scouts BSA, Exploring, Venturing, & Sea Scouts | | | |
Summer Camp Apparel Has Dropped!
Browse the Apparel Shop
Get geared up for adventure! The Camp T. Brady Saunders 2025 Summer Camp Apparel is HERE—and we're excited about the lineup! Join us in celebrating 60 Years of Camping at TBS with a throwback design, pay homage to our beloved Fifi with our retro skunk design, and show off what you love most about camp! Customize your shirt to suit your style by picking your favorite color and sleeve length. Which design are you rocking this summer? Use code earlybird by May 28th to score 10% off your order!
[Go Shopping & Get Your 10% Discount]
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Summer Camp 2025 at Camp T. Brady Saunders
Camp Is Filling Up FAST–Don't Miss Out!
Did you know that Camp T. Brady Saunders was named 2nd runner-up in the 2024 Richmond Times-Dispatch "The Best" contest for Best Summer Camp? Registrations are filling up fast, and we're looking at a record-breaking summer at Camp T. Brady Saunders. Here is the status on each week:
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Week 1, June 15-21: only 81 youth spots left.
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Week 2, June 22-28: 100% sold out.
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Week 3, July 6-12: only 7 youth spots left.
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Week 4, July 13-19: only 58 youth spots left.
[Go to Summer Camp!]
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Patrick Henry Public Speaking Merit Badge Forum
May 17th
Interested in completing the Public Speaking and Communication merit badges? Due to limited availability in the Communication merit badge classes, Scouts are asked to complete the Public Speaking merit badge before registering for Communication. While not a formal requirement, taking Public Speaking first will help Scouts build strong foundational skills and get more out of the Communication badge experience. And yes—Patrick Henry will be making a return appearance this year!
[Attend Merit Badge Day]
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Hampden-Sydney College Merit Badge Day
June 7th
Hampden-Sydney College is hosting their annual Merit Badge Day on June 7th, 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. Adult leaders will have the opportunity to attend Wilderness First Aid Training and a guided scenic forest hike! Merit badge registration is open!
[Attend Merit Badge Day]
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Scouts BSA Test Lab
Have you visited the Scouts BSA Test Lab? This is a unique opportunity for Scouts to test drive potential merit badges, and provide their feedback, in the hopes of adding new badges to the program. Right now, you can complete the proposed requirements for Auctioneering, Wildland Fire Management, and Life Skills, but the Test Lab will regularly feature new and exciting proposed badges. Scouts completing these test badges will earn a certificate (which does not count toward advancement), but if it becomes official, they will be credited with having earned it. Let us know if you give it a try, and what you like about each proposed badge.
[Enter the Lab]
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National Youth Leadership Training
June 8th–14th
National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) is a premier leadership experience for Scouts, equipping them with the skills to lead both in Scouting and beyond. Over an action-packed week, participants engage in hands-on activities, challenges, and team-based learning, all centered around what a leader must BE, KNOW, and DO. Held in an outdoor setting, NYLT brings leadership to life through real-world application, preparing youth to take on greater responsibilities in their troops, crews, and communities. Are you ready to lead?
[Secure Your Spot]
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Buckskin: The Leadership Experience
July 20th–July 26th
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 Jamboree Registration Is Open!
July 22–31, 2026
Scouting’s flagship event is one-of-a-kind. It’s a gathering of approximately 30,000 Scouts, leaders, and staff that showcases everything that is great about the BSA and its members. Held every four years, the Jamboree is an amazing opportunity for participants, volunteers, and visitors to experience the best of Scouting, all in one place. Features include; one of the longest zip line courses in North America, a world-class skate park, ATV offerings, treetop canopy tours, rock climbing, patch trading, stadium shows, and much more! The 2026 National Jamboree is open to Scouts BSA, Venturing, Explorer, and Sea Scouts, 12 and up!
[Visit Our Jamboree Page]
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Trailblazer Program Area Updates
The Heart of Virginia Scout Reservation is thrilled to announce the relocation and enhancement of the first-year camper Trailblazer Program Area. As part of the ongoing implementation of the Heart of Virginia Scout Reservation Master Plan, this exciting project moves the program area to the Parade Field at Camp T. Brady Saunders. The new location offers closer proximity to restrooms and a more centralized position within the camp, along with a sprawling open field perfect for outdoor activities.
[Read All About It]
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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 on May 14th and June 11th!
[Tune In]
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Exploring Live Hour, 2025 Schedule Available
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. Each month the National Exploring Live Hour will be led by our National Exploring Program Chair and the National Director of 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 next Live Hour takes place May 7th and covers “4 Phases” of Organizing a New Post or Club, & Other Available Resources.
[Get the 2025 Schedule]
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Venturing Podcast: Leading Our Adventures
Ready to explore the exciting world of Venturing? Tune in to Leading Our Adventures, the official Venturing BSA podcast, where passionate Venturers and leaders share inspiration, leadership tips, and incredible stories from across the Venturing community. Each episode covers topics like planning unforgettable adventures, fostering personal growth, and building strong crews. Whether you’re a seasoned Venturer, a new member, or simply curious about Venturing, there’s something for everyone.
[YouTube] [Facebook]
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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]
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Calling All Radio Scouts
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 BSA registered youth and adult volunteers at no cost.
[Join the Club!]
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BALOO Training for Cub Scout Leaders
April 12th–13th
Ready to take your Scouting Skills to the next level? Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation is an essential training program designed to equip leaders with the tools they need to guide Scouts in the great outdoors. BALOO is perfect for Cub Scout leaders, focusing on the essentials of camping with younger Scouts. You'll learn how to safely plan and execute outdoor adventures, creating unforgettable experiences for your Pack. In order for your unit to have an outdoor camping experience, you must have someone on-site who is BALOO trained!
[Register to Attend]
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IOLS for Scouts BSA Leadership
April 12th–13th
Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills is tailored for adult leaders in Scouts BSA, covering the fundamental outdoor skills every Scout needs to know, from setting up camp to using a map and compass This hands-on IOLS course ensures you're prepared to deliver the best, safest Scouting experience possible. Invest in your leadership journey and empower the next generation of Scouts with the confidence and skills they need to survive.
[Register to Attend]
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2025 Scouting University: Save the Date & Survey
September 27th
Great leaders inspire greatness in others, and the Heart of Virginia Council’s University of Scouting is here to help you unlock your potential! Join us on September 27th at Richmond’s First Baptist Church for a day of learning, growth, and adventure planning.
Stay tuned for more details from your district leadership and social channels. In the meantime, help shape this year’s event by sharing your input—take our survey and let us know which classes interest you most!
[Take the Scouting U Survey]
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Spring 2026 Wood Badge
Save the Date: 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. Save the date, and visit our Wood Badge page using the link below.
[Wood Badge Page]
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Eagle Scout Graduation Honor Cords
They've earned their Eagle, and now it's time for them to soar! Celebrate your Scout's accomplishment with our Eagle Scout Graduation Honor Cords. These special cords are red, white and blue double cords with a custom silver Eagle charm attached, to be worn with the high school's cap and gown on graduation day. Our Heart of Virginia Council Scout Shop has plenty of Eagle Cords, and other great gifts, in stock! Visit us at 8090 Villa Park Drive today to browse o selection.
[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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Did Your Unit Earn Free Rank Patches?
Units that sold at least $400 in Camp Cards, Popcorn, and/or Peanuts, held a Family Friends of Scouting presentation, and completed unit renewal on time will receive free rank patches this year! Congratulations! 🎉
To claim your patches, email your advancement report with the purchase order summary page to scoutshophovc@scouting.org at least 48 business hours before your planned pick-up. This helps our Scout Shop team prepare your order so it’s ready when you arrive. Thank you for your dedication to Scouting—your hard work makes a difference!
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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]
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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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May 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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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]
| | | 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]
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Memorials & Honors
Tributes and memorials are a way for us to honor, cherish, or 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.
[Leave a Review]
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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.
[Get the News]
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