March 2, 2026

Dear Scouting Volunteers,

You may have seen news articles or social media posts about a new agreement between Scouting America’s National Council and the Department of War, bringing our organization into compliance with Executive Order 14173. We want to reach out directly so that you hear from us first, and hear it clearly. The recent announcement front the Scouting America National Council is here.

As of this writing, the one confirmed program change communicated by Scouting America is the discontinuation of the Citizenship in Society Merit Badge. More guidance on this change is here. While this change reflects the requirements of the Executive Order, the lessons at the heart of that badge, including respect for others, leadership development, and appreciation of diverse perspectives, remain woven throughout every aspect of the Scouting program. They always have been. They will remain so.

Unchanged are Scouting America’s mission, its membership registration practices, and its commitment to safeguarding every young person in our care.

Here in Greater Boston, the Spirit of Adventure Council remains steadfast. Our programs will continue to be open and welcoming to every youth who wishes to participate, and we remain committed to providing access and assistance to those who need it most, from our region’s most affluent suburbs to some of its poorest cities. Our leadership will continue to grow to reflect the diverse communities we are honored to serve.

Scouting has always been about developing young people of character, young people who go on to lead families, communities, and institutions guided by the principles of the Scout Oath and Law. That work continues, unchanged and undeterred.

We’ll continue to share what we’re learning from Scouting America, and work with you to build communities of character across Greater Boston. We welcome your thoughts along the way.

Thank you for your trust, your commitment, and everything you do to make Scouting a positive and lasting force in the lives of young people across our region.

Yours in Scouting,

Eric Evans - Council President

John Judge - CEO|Scout Executive

Mark Maurice - Council Commissioner

Scouting America Greater Boston