For me it's double or nothing

 

I've thought long and hard about giving to Friends of Scouting this year. I know all of the great things that can happen with the money the council receives, but I find I can't support the sort of organization that continues to discriminate against gay scouts and adult leaders. I've seen what the current policy can do to my friends, my troop, and my community.

 

I am very disappointed that the Mount Diablo Silverado Council chose to support National's membership policy instead of standing up for the scouts and volunteers of our district. It is clear to me that while the Scout Executives are paid out of our FOS contributions they really work for National.

 

I think our council wants to do the right thing, and if they do I will be proud to support them. So, when I'm asked for a Friends of Scouting contribution I'll be giving them a "Promise Note". The promise note reads:

 

When the Mount Diablo Silverado Council publicly announces that they will support, and encourage others to support, changing the BSA's membership policy at the national meeting in May 2013, I will proudly contribute the sum of:_______________dollars.

 

I want to be proud of our council, I want the shoulder patch I wear to represent the best of the Boy Scouts. So I will be writing down twice what I gave them last year. I hope they do the right thing and I will be proud to give them the money if they do.

 

I know this is the right decision for me and my family. The right answer for you might be different. Maybe you want to donate the normal amount today and offer an additional twenty or thirty bucks with a "Promise Note".  Maybe half now, half later. Whatever you think is best for you and your family is the right answer.

 

Promise Notes that can be attached to your FOS card are available here:

 

 MDSC Promise Note

 

 

Please pass this e-mail along to other scouting families.  

 

Best Regards,

 

Wendell Baker 

Scoutmaster

Troop 234 Moraga

(Scouts for Equality - Golden Gate)