🍂 Breaking and updated news is denoted with falling leaves!
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🍂 Reviewing Annual Health & Medical Records
Scout Safety Moment
Keeping Scouts safe starts with a complete Annual Health and Medical Record (AHMR). From allergies and medications to emergency contacts and physician exams, this form gives leaders the tools they need to plan safe, fun adventures for every youth. Reviewing the AHMR carefully ensures nothing is overlooked and every Scout is ready for adventure. Parents - have you completed forms for your Scouts and yourselves?

[Learn How to Review an AHMR]
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🍂 Now Hiring: ScoutReach PT Program Aid
We are seeking a Part-Time ScoutReach Program Aid to support our mission of bringing Scouting to underserved youth. This role is a unique opportunity for someone passionate about mentorship, community engagement, and helping young people reach their full potential. ScoutReach Program Aids work alongside our full-time ScoutReach Executive to deliver high-quality programs that inspire, challenge, and support youth. From weekly troop meetings to weekend and summer camping experiences, you’ll play a key role in shaping the Scouting journey for participants while also helping to recruit and guide volunteers.
[Learn More & Apply]
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Fall Scout Shop Uniforming Sale
Now through 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!]
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🍂 National Virtual P.R.A.Y. Program
Starting October 5th
National Virtual P.R.A.Y Programs are back starting October 5th! Open to Protestant, Non-Denominational, and Independent Christian youth in grades K-12, these free Zoom classes cover all five P.R.A.Y. program levels. Registration is open now through September 30 – spots are limited!
[Learn More & Register]
[Check Out Our Reverence Hub]
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🍂 Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (IOLS)
Registration is Reopened! October 4th—5th
Last call for October IOLS! Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (IOLS) 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 for IOLS ASAP]
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Last Call for Fall Fundraiser Food Lion Show & Sells
October 11th & 18th
We’ve coordinated two convenient Show & Sell dates: October 11 and October 18 - at Food Lion stores across the Council to help your unit fundraise with Camp Masters popcorn and Whitley's peanuts! The best part: it's no risk! We’ll provide product on consignment (for two Saturdays only), and you can return any unsold items. This is a great chance to try Show & Sell and boost your fall fundraising success. Spots are still available - sign up today!
[Snag Your Spots!]
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🍂 National Jamboree Is Less Than a Year Away!
Virtual Informational Meeting, October 8th
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 Scouting America 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. The deadline to register is October 17th! Don't miss out.
[Visit Our Jamboree Page]
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23rd Annual Sporting Clays Classic
Thursday, October 9th
Join us for the Sporting Clays Classic on October 9th at Cub Adventure Camp in Goochland—a thrilling day for both experienced shooters and newcomers alike! Choose from morning or afternoon flights, enjoy a hot breakfast, BBQ lunch, and an afternoon reception with cigars and adult beverages, all while supporting Scouting in Central Virginia. With raffles, prizes, and a professionally designed course, it’s a day of fun and fellowship for a great cause!
[Join Us!]
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Angling Educator Class
Saturday, October 18th
What is an Angling Educator Class? Everything you need to know to take your Scouts fishing! The program is designed to give a student who has never fished the skills and knowledge, both practical and ethical, to go to a pond and be immediately successful. This class is for adults and Scouts 15 or older (exceptions at discretion of the course coordinator, but Scouts must be mature enough to teach other Scouts).
[Fish On!]
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Glow Trail Run 5K & Kids 1-Miler
In One Month, on Friday, October 24th
The brightest night of the year is back! Get ready for an electrifying fall adventure at the Glow Trail Run 5K & Kids 1-Miler, where glowing trails, high energy, and unforgettable memories await! Bring the whole family, your running crew, or just come for the s’mores. You don’t have to be a Scout to join the fun. Just grab your brightest headlamp and favorite pair of running shoes! We’re also building the team behind the magic and inviting volunteers to join our Race Committee to help plan the 2025 race. From logistics and glow gear to promotions and s’mores, there’s a role for everyone.
[Let's Get Glowing!]
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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, starting in August, Scouting America began 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.
| | Recruitment & New Membership | |
Join Scouting Night Events and Resources
We are busily holding Join Scouting Night events for elementary (and some intermediate) schools in Central Virginia. Parents, unit leaders, and Scouts can help spread the word by sharing those events on their Pack Facebook pages and groups, their personal pages, and neighborhood groups. It also helps to interact with those posts on the Heart of Virginia Council's own Facebook page by liking and/or commenting. Did you know that we have peer-to-peer recruitment cards available? Scouts can invite their friends to visit your unit directly, and possibly earn the Recruiter Strip for their uniform!
[Heart of Virginia Council's Facebook Page]
[Heart of Virginia Council's Recruitment Materials]
[A Scout's Guide to Earning the Recruiter Strip]
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Monthly Payment Plan
for New Scouts and Adult Leaders
The Heart of Virginia Council is proud to offer a monthly payment plan to help new families join Scouting without the burden of paying the full annual registration fee upfront. This option is for new families who wish to pay a monthly registration fee like Netflix or Apple Music to be registered members of Scouting America instead of paying for all the registration up front. The payment plan would be recurring each month on a credit card or debit card.
[Learn More!]
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2026 Season Pass for the Heart of Virginia Council Savings for Everyone 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]
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Den, Pack and Troop Driven Recruitment Guide
Every fall, the Heart of Virginia Council conducts a Join Scouting Night Campaign to invite new families to join packs, troops, crews, and posts. This fall we will again hold a JSN campaign, primarily utilizing promotions efforts through local schools. However, your den, pack, or troop can hold additional recruiting events that leverage social media and word-of-mouth marketing to invite new families out to one or more of the fun activities that your unit is already doing. Use our helpful guide and planning worksheet to help you hold a successful recruitment event.
[Learn More!]
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BeAScout Leads & Invitations
Regularly Check My.Scouting Membership Manager
Hey Unit Key 3! Are you keeping up with your BeAScout leads and applications? More families than ever are discovering the excitement of Scouting online, and they’re ready to jump in—don’t leave them hanging! Now’s the time to review, follow up, and welcome new members to your pack, troop, or crew. Want to manage those leads like a pro? Take action when you receive lead and invitation notification emails, and reach out to your District Executive with issues or questions.
[Become A Membership Manager Pro]
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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!]
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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!]
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🍂 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 | |
🍂 2025 Popcorn & Peanut Fundraiser
Our Popcorn & Peanut fundraiser is coming to a close later this month... keep selling and finish strong! There are a few important dates coming up that our Kernels and Captains need to be aware of. Unit Show and Sell Payments are due by October 17th. Final take orders are due by October 27th. In November, prize orders and Unit Top Sellers Reports are due by the 10th, and final product distribution for both popcorn and peanuts will take place on November 14th and 15th. Final Unit payments are due by November 17th! We hope you're enjoying a successful fundraising season and look forward to celebrating our Top Sellers soon!
[Visit the Popcorn Virginia Page]
[Contact Us for Consignment Sale Options Oct. 11 & 18]
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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]
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James River District AOL to Scout Transition Fair
October 8th
The James River District invites Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts and their parents to join Scouts BSA Troops at this year's Webelos to Scouts Transition Fair on October 8th. The Fair will provide an opportunity for Scouts and their parents to meet representatives of James River District Troops, ask questions, talk about Troop activities, and find out what each unit has to offer. Our hope is that this Fair will help Scouts and parents find a Troop that meets their needs.
[Learn More & Register]
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Creepy Hollow at Cub Adventure Camp
October 18th–19th | October 25th–26th
It's officially fall and we're ready to get CREEPY! Join us at Cub Adventure Camp for a weekend filled with fall fun and spooky thrills! Whether you stay overnight in your own tent or just visit for the day, the Heart of Virginia Council welcomes all Cub and Webelos Scouts to experience this event with your Pack or as a family campout. Arrive on Friday to set up camp, or come for the day on Saturday to enjoy a variety of Fall and Halloween-themed activities. Highlights include BB shooting, archery, fishing, a haunted trail, crafts, a costume contest, and so much more! Registration is open!
[Get Creepy, Too!]
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🍂 Creepy Hollow Volunteers
Looking for a fun and meaningful way to serve this fall? Volunteer at Creepy Hollow, our Cub Scout family campout, and enjoy free camping, three meals in the Dining Hall, and a free T-shirt if you sign up by September 30! Volunteers help with activity stations, the Haunted House & Trail, or in the Dining Hall... and it’s a blast for troops or individual Scouts 15 and older (younger Scouts can join if accompanied by an adult). Two sessions are available (October 18–19 and October 25–26) so grab your troop, your gear, and get ready for a spooky-good time!
[Register to Volunteer]
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Glow Trail Run 5K & Kids 1-Miler on October 24th
Cub Scouts Can Earn Adventure Requirements
Along the Kids 1-Miler trail, Scouts can complete real requirements from their rank adventures while having a blast. The course also highlights the Scout Six Essentials, with fun signs placed along the route to help runners learn what to bring on every outdoor adventure. Whether they're Wolves working on "Running with the Pack" or Webelos aiming for "Stronger, Faster, Higher," this run turns fitness into fun, and advancement! If you are attending the 2nd weekend of Creepy Hollow, come out on Friday for the race, set up your campsite, and enjoy a campfire dinner for $5 per person!
[Let's Get Glowing!]
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🍂 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]
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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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Oct. 3: Recruiting New Leaders
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Oct. 10: Welcoming New Leaders
Did you miss the 26th episode where we talked about the National Day of Service? Catch up on the archives using the link below.
[Tune In to Cub Chat Live]
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Customized Weekend Experiences
As you plan your program year, now is the perfect time to consider booking a customized Weekend Experience at the Heart of Virginia Council Scout Reservation. Craft adventures around the activities your Scouts enjoy the most, like camping, fishing, range & target sports, climbing, boating, sports, and more!
[Plan Your Weekend Experience]
| | | Scouts BSA, Exploring, Venturing, & Sea Scouts | |
🍂 Scouts BSA Advancement Demystified
Webinar, October 1st
Tired of hearing different answers about Scouts BSA advancement requirements from different leaders? Join our "Advancement Myths – BUSTED!" webinar on October 1st to get the official facts and clear up the most common misconceptions that confuse Scouts, parents, and troop leaders.
[Register to Attend]
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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!]
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🍂 Veterans Day Essay Contest
Submissions Due October 13th
Each fall, the Virginia War Memorial runs a Veterans Day Student Essay Contest open to middle and high school students across the state. For 2025, the prompt is “A Virginian Who Served in the Military who Inspires Me,” and entries (500–750 words) must include at least one primary source plus a bibliography in APA or MLA format. Two winners (one from grades 6–8 and one from 9–12) will each receive $500, and be invited to the Commonwealth’s Veterans Day Ceremony on November 11th. Submissions are due midnight, Monday, October 13th.
[Learn More & Submit Your Essay]
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🍂 NCCS Scholarship Portal Is Open
Submit Applications Through Spring of 2026
Are you or someone you know a service-oriented high school senior who’s Catholic and in a Scouting America program? Great news! The National Catholic Committee on Scouting (NCCS) is awarding 13 college scholarships totaling $36,000 for 2026. Applicants submit one application to be considered for any of the 13 possible scholarships. Since 2005, the NCSS has awarded $308,000 to 131 service-oriented Scouts nationwide. The application portal is open now through March 26, 2026.
[Learn More & Apply]
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🍂 Winter Camp 2026
In-Council Registration Is Open!
Don’t sit around this winter being bored – come chill out with your friends at Winter Camp! Scouts are invited out to T. Brady Saunders January 16th–19th, 2026 to get out of the house, have some fun, and earn merit badges. We can’t think of a cooler way to enjoy winter than being at camp! We are seeking volunteers and merit badge counselors. Staff receive a hoodie, patch, indoor housing, and free meals! The Merit Badge Guide will be released on November 3rd.
[Go To Camp!]
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James River District AOL to Scout Transition Fair
October 8th
The James River District invites Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts and their parents to join Scouts BSA Troops at this year's Webelos to Scouts Transition Fair on October 8th. The Fair will provide an opportunity for Scouts and their parents to meet representatives of James River District Troops, ask questions, talk about Troop activities, and find out what each unit has to offer. Our hope is that this Fair will help Scouts and parents find a Troop that meets their needs.
[Learn More & Register]
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🍂 Dogwood District Merit Badge Camporee
October 17th—19th
All Troops from the Dogwood District, as well as those from around the Heart of Virginia Council, are invited to attend the 2025 Dogwood District / Order of the Arrow Fall Camporee. Chapter 5 of Nawakwa Lodge of the Order of the Arrow has the pleasure of hosting this event again this year, doing so in accordance with the founding principles of the Order of the Arrow – to promote camping and to develop youth leadership. We look forward to a weekend full of fun, and opportunities unique to this event. Registration opens soon!

[Save the Date for the Camporee]
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🍂 JOTA - JOTI is Back!
October 17th—19th
Jamboree on the Air - Jamboree on the Internet is back! Scouts of all ages will link up across the globe through the internet and amateur radio, making new friends, sharing cultures, and sharpening their communication skills. Whether you’re tuning in from home, setting up with your local group, or jumping into live challenges, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this global adventure—register your group (or yourself) today!

[Visit the JOTA-JOTI Website]
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🍂 The Nightmare Before Thanksgiving Camporee
October 31st—November 2nd
Join Arrohattoc and Crater Districts for a weekend of outdoor activities at the Nightmare Before Thanksgiving Fall Camporee on October 31st to November 2nd at Chesterfield County Fairgrounds. The skills needed will be many and varied, but will probably include knot-tying, orienteering, team-work, cooking, balance, and other Scout skills and knowledge. Patrols will earn currency at each station to "spend" at the live auction.

[Register for the Camporee]
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🍂 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]
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🍂 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]
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🍂 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]
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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]
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New Test Lab Merit Badges
Sewing & Needlework and Physics
Scouts BSA is adding two exciting new Test Lab merit badges (Sewing & Needlework and Physics) to its lineup, joining Auctioneering, Wildland Fire Management, and Life Skills. The Test Lab lets Scouts try new badge content, give valuable feedback, and help decide if these badges become official. Whether you want to master basic sewing skills or explore motion, energy, and forces, now’s your chance to shape the future of Scouting.
[Swing by the Lab!]
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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!]
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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.
Did you tune in on September 24th to learn more about being Connecting with Your Local Cub Scout Pack? View the archives using the link below, and be on the lookout for details about the upcoming October 8th episode.
[Tune In]
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Exploring Live Hour
Next Meeting is October 8th
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 next Live Hour takes place October 8th and covers Safety First Review/Exploring Unit Metrics/ Exploring Officers Association.
[Get the 2025 Schedule]
[Register for the Zoom]
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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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Join the TBS Amateur Radio Club
The FCC Amateur Radio Service and Scouting share a common mission: service to others. The Camp TBS Amateur Radio Club (ARC) was formed in 2019 while the affiliated operating station was constructed. The station is located at Camp T. Brady Saunders. The goal of this project is to provide a space for STEM programs in radio and teaching the Radio Merit Badge. Membership is informal and offered to Scouting America registered youth and adult volunteers at no cost.
[Join the Club!]
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Citizenship in Society MB Counselor Orientation
October 19th
We're excited to welcome new Citizenship in Society Merit Badge Counselor candidates at an orientation session on Sunday, October 19th, from 2:00 to 3:30 PM in the Eagle Room at the HOVC Leadership Center. Open to Scouts and adults selected by their units, this 90-minute session (limited to 20 participants) will equip attendees with the guidance needed to lead youth through the badge’s meaningful journey.
[Register Today!]
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Adult Leadership Training: BALOO & IOLS
November 1st–2nd
You're not seeing double! BALOO and IOLS are offered twice this fall. BALOO (Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation) is for Cub Scout leaders and IOLS (Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills) is for Scouts BSA leaders. These hands-on courses prepare you to safely lead overnight adventures and deliver unforgettable outdoor programs. Get trained, get outside, and give your Scouts the adventure they deserve! Registration is open now for these events, offered by the North of the James Training Team!
[Register for BALOO]
[Register for IOLS]
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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]
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NEW S.A.F.E. Guarding Youth Training
Replaces Youth Protection Training
Effective immediately, 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]
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Hazardous Weather Training
Required for Direct-Contact Leaders
Hazardous Weather Training is required for all direct-contact leaders in Scouting America, and helps Scouting leaders recognize and respond to weather-related risks during Scouting activities. This online course provides essential knowledge to plan safe outdoor adventures, assess weather threats, and take the right action when conditions change. It’s an essential part of ensuring youth safety in the outdoors. This 30-minute training must be completed every two years. At a minimum, one adult leader must complete this before a unit can camp with youth.
[Are You Fully Trained?]
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🍂 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]
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🍂 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]
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🍂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]
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🍂 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]
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🍂 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]
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Scout Shop Hours
August 11th–November 1st
Throughout our fall recruitment season, the Scout Shop, located at 8090 Villa Park Drive in Henrico, will observe extended Saturday hours to better serve our new and returning Scouts. Please see our seasonal hours below, which are effective through November 1st.
Monday–Tuesday: 9am to 5:30pm
Wednesday: Noon to 6pm
Thursday–Friday: 9am to 5:30pm
Saturday: 9am to 2pm

[Visit the Scout Shop]
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New Glow-in-the-Dark Tees
In Tiger, Wolf & Bear Designs
New Scouting Year, New Activity Uniform Tees! Kick off a new rank year in Cub Scouting with fun new "Class B" tees in fun designs, including these new glow-in-the-dark designs (available in Tiger, Wolf & Bear). Come browse the selection at our Scout Shop at 8090 Villa Park Drive in Henrico!
[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 $1,000 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 in 2026! 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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District Roundtables
Roundtable is a monthly program offered by districts that give leaders hands-on experience and provides a forum for leaders to offer and receive help from their fellow Scouters. Each district offers special supplemental training for volunteers at the beginning of the month.
[Learn More & Get the Dates]
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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
Memorials & Honors are a way for us to pay tribute to, cherish, and remember our Scouting mentors and loved ones. Honors and Memorials can be made at the Leadership Center or by mailing donations to 8090 Villa Park Drive, Henrico, VA 23228. Please include a memo denoting the individual(s) you are donating in honor or memorial of.
[View Our Memorials & Honors]
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The HOVC Communications team continues to work hard to provide existing, new, and potential Scouts with the best possible experience! That includes access to great, accurate information… and we think YOU are an important source! We would love to hear from you about your positive experiences with HOVC.
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Friday 5 & Courier Newsletters
Get the top news stories of the week and month by subscribing to our Friday 5 and Courier newsletters. We'll keep you updated on the news you need every Friday at noon. Subscribe and view the archives by visiting the link below.
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