National and local media outlets are publishing stories on the Boy Scouts of America's Ineligible Volunteer files after the Oregon Supreme Court ordered them to be released. The files exist to protect youth by helping the BSA keep individuals deemed to be inappropriate leaders out of Scouting.
The safety of all children is paramount to the Greater St. Louis Area Council, Boy Scouts of America. During the last three decades, we strengthened and enhanced the programs and policies that protect children.
We believe any occurrence of abuse is unacceptable. We regret there have been times when the BSA's best efforts to protect children were insufficient. For that we are deeply sorry and extend our deepest sympathies to victims. We are committed to helping those who suffered abuse and assisting them through a variety of means.
We posted a letter from our Scout Executive to top unit and district leaders and a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document on our website.
Scouting becomes a partner with parents in ensuring the safety of their children. Scouting is a safe place for young people, with policies and procedures to prevent, detect and deter any kind of abuse. Leadership involvement, parent engagement, youth and adult training, and conversations on abuse prevention involving parents and children help create a safer community for young people. This is an example of Scouting teaching young people the skills they need to be prepared for a range of challenges and opportunities that lie ahead throughout their lifetime.
We appreciate the efforts of thousands of volunteers who diligently provide safe and healthy activities for our Scouts.
--Greater St. Louis Area Council,
Boy Scouts of America
P.S.: Thanks to all who support the United Way. Please be generous if asked to make a contribution to this year's campaign.
Get Great Ideas At Cub Leader Pow Wow
Saddle up for the Cub Scout Leader Pow Wow on Saturday, Nov. 3, at Seckman High School and wrangle some new skills in crafts, games, the value of Cub Scouting and more. Have fun while learning with plenty of hands-on activities to take back to your pack and den. Cost is $20 -- chow's included!
Click here for online registration.
Training Required For All Volunteers
New leaders are required to take Youth Protection Training within 30 days of registering and before serving as a leader with youth. An online course is available at http://myscouting.org. (You do not have to be a registered member or have an ID number to take the training.) Click on the E-Learning link to begin the training.
Visit our New Leader Training page and follow the steps to become prepared to deliver a great program for your Scouts. Contact your unit leadership, unit commissioner or district executive if you need any assistance or have questions.
Cub Camp Lottery Deadline Is Nov. 20
Information on the 2013 summer camp program has been sent to leaders. Dad & Lad/Mom & Me, Webelos Mini-Camp and Webelos Camp offer outdoor adventures for Cubs at all levels. Make sure your unit enters the lottery for the 2013 camping season. Download the registration form...
Food Drive Tackles Local Hunger
Prepare now for Scouting for Food, the largest single-day canned food drive in our community. Each year, our Scouts, parents and leaders collect enough food to assist approximately 500 pantries throughout our region with a four-month supply of food.
This year, Scouts distribute bags on Saturday, Nov. 10, and return the following Saturday, Nov. 17, to collect the bags filled with canned goods. Remember these important steps:
- Recruit enough adults to help. Youths need supervision, especially when on busy city streets and rural highways. Good supervision and discipline prevent many injuries.
- Pick up your unit's bags. If you need more bags, contact your district's Scouting for Food participation chairman.
- Review your unit's assigned territory. Each unit should have an assigned area. Please cover only your unit's assigned territory.
Read more...
Popcorn Orders Are Due Oct. 26
Make that last push to sell popcorn -- the sale ends this Friday! Popcorn and prize orders are due online Oct. 26. Show 'N' Deliver payments and unopened cases are also due to West Pine, Cape or Herrin Scout office locations. Popcorn arrives in warehouses on Nov. 8. Read more...
Don't Miss First National Jamboree At
Summit Bechtel Reserve
Imagine 50,000 Scouts, Venturers, volunteers and staff from all over the country -- all gathered together for one big celebration of Scouting. Held once every four years, the 2013 National Jamboree is a chance to camp out with friends, meet new friends, try high-adventure activities, learn new skills and enjoy the outdoors.
During the 10-day event, there are exhibits, stadium shows with entertainment, opportunities to work on merit badges -- there's something for everybody. Read more...
Find Goodies At Tail Gate Sale
Need camping gear but it's not in your budget? Attend the first annual tail gate sale Saturday, Oct. 27, on the Cub Word parking lot, and find everything from surplus camping gear to gently used uniforms -- as well as leftover adventure camp craft items. To reserve your own sale table, contact Joe Wingbermuehle at 636-938-5444.
Charter Fee Increases, Changes Name
The unit charter fee will be renamed "unit liability insurance fee" and increase to $40 per unit, effective Jan. 1, 2013.
Read more... 
