August 6, 2025

Are you ready to unlock your full potential as a leader, both within your troop and beyond? National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) is an immersive, six-day program designed to do just that – equipping you with the vital skills and confidence to lead effectively. NYLT is more than just a training course; it’s an experience that fosters personal growth, strengthens your troop, and prepares you for success in all areas of life.

Why should you choose NYLT?

1. Build Confidence & Leadership Skills:
   Through hands-on activities, presentations, challenges, and team discussions, NYLT empowers you to become a more confident and capable leader. You’ll develop essential leadership skills like communication, conflict resolution, team development, and goal setting.
2. Sharpen Your Problem-Solving Abilities:
   NYLT places you in situations that demand teamwork and quick thinking, helping you hone your problem-solving skills in a fun and challenging environment.
3. Strengthen Your Troop & Mentorship:
   NYLT-trained Scouts bring valuable skills back to their home units, improving troop dynamics, organization, and overall performance. The program also emphasizes mentorship, both by the experienced youth staff and through the interactions with your patrol mates, allowing you to learn from and inspire others.
4. Create Lasting Bonds & Memories:
   You’ll forge strong friendships and connections with Scouts from other troops and councils, expanding your network and sharing a memorable experience that will last a lifetime.
5. Open Doors to Future Opportunities:
   NYLT serves as a stepping stone to further leadership roles within Scouting, such as Senior Patrol Leader, Venturing President, or even participation in advanced programs like the National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience (NAYLE).

Ready to embark on your NYLT adventure?

NYLT is open to Scouts BSA members aged 13-17 (who have achieved the rank of First Class and completed Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops) and Venturers/Sea Scouts aged 14-20 (or 13 and completed eighth grade, who have completed Introduction to Leadership Skills for Crews/Ships). You’ll need a current Annual Health and Medical Record and a recommendation from your unit leader.

You won’t regret taking this exciting step towards becoming the best leader you can be!

Dates: December 28-30, 2025 & January 17-19, 2026 (you must attend both dates)
Location: Cherokee Scout Reservation
Registration Deadline: December 19 at 11:59 pm
Registration Link: https://scoutingevent.com/070-nylt

Are you ready to cast a wider net and reel in more excitement for your Scouts? The Boy Scouts of America’s (BSA) Certified Angling Instructor (CAI) program is designed to equip leaders like you with the knowledge and skills to deliver a truly exceptional fishing program to your unit.

Fishing is a beloved and classic Scouting activity, consistently ranking among the top preferred outdoor activities for Scouts. The CAI program, established in 2004, aims to empower leaders to foster that love of angling, expand fishing opportunities for youth, and even utilize fishing as a powerful tool for recruitment and retention within your unit.

Why should you become a CAI?

1. Become a Fishing Expert: The CAI training covers everything from the basics of cane pole fishing to the intricacies of fly-fishing, including gear, knots, casting techniques, and even how to clean and cook your catch. You’ll gain the confidence to teach Scouts of all ages and skill levels.
2. Enhance Your Unit’s Program: Imagine adding exciting fishing events to your troop or den calendar! CAI training provides the tools and knowledge to plan and execute engaging fishing programs that cater to Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, and Venturing units.
3. Empower Scouts with Lifelong Skills: Fishing is more than just a pastime; it’s an opportunity to develop patience, observation skills, and a deeper appreciation for the outdoors. As a CAI, you’ll be instrumental in guiding Scouts toward these valuable life lessons.
4. Qualify as a Fishing & Fly Fishing Merit Badge Counselor: Upon completion of the CAI course, you’ll be qualified to serve as a merit badge counselor for both the Fishing and Fly Fishing merit badges. This adds a significant resource to your unit and helps more Scouts earn these popular awards.
5. Contribute to Recruitment and Retention: Surveys indicate fishing is a popular activity, especially for younger youth. Offering a robust fishing program through your unit, led by a CAI, can attract new Scouts and keep existing members engaged.

What to expect in CAI training

The CAI course typically involves around 18 hours of instruction, including both classroom learning and hands-on outdoor experiences. You’ll delve into modules covering:

• The history and importance of BSA Fishing.
• BSA Fishing organization and program delivery methods.
• Conventional and fly-fishing gear and techniques.
• Health, safety, and ethical considerations in fishing.
• Leave No Trace principles for anglers.
• Fishing regulations, conservation, and fishery management.
• Planning and running successful fishing events.
• The nature of fish, where to find them, and how to fish effectively.
• Teaching methods using the EDGE method to effectively instruct Scouts.

No prior fishing experience is required to attend! The course is designed to provide you with all the foundational knowledge and teaching skills you need to become a successful CAI. Experienced anglers are also encouraged to participate to further hone their skills and share their expertise.

Make a splash with your unit!

Take the next step in enhancing your leadership abilities and enriching your unit’s program. Register for the upcoming CAI training course and unlock the exciting world of fishing for your Scouts! You’ll not only gain valuable skills but also become a valuable asset to your Scouting community, helping to inspire the next generation of anglers. 

Dates: August 22-24, 2025

Location: Hagan Sea Base

Registration Deadline: August 19 at 11:59 pm

Registration Link: https://scoutingevent.com/070-cai 

As a dedicated Scout leader, you play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of young people, guiding them through adventures and instilling valuable skills. To truly empower your Scouts and ensure a safe and impactful outdoor program, participation in the Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) course is essential.

IOLS is more than just a training course; it’s a transformative experience designed to equip adult leaders with the practical skills and confidence needed to lead Scouts in a safe and enriching outdoor environment.

Why IOLS is vital for you and your Scouts:

• Master Essential Outdoor Skills: IOLS provides hands-on training in fundamental outdoor skills, aligning closely with the Scouts BSA Handbook and covering skills up to the First Class rank. This includes everything from campsite selection and tent pitching to cooking, Leave No Trace principles, first aid, map and compass navigation, fire building, and safe use of woods tools like knives and axes.
• Enhance Safety and Confidence: By gaining practical experience and proficiency in these skills, you’ll feel more confident leading your Scouts in outdoor activities, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone involved. IOLS training helps you model effective techniques and provides valuable insights into how Scouting programs work in practice.
• Embrace the Patrol Method: IOLS is built around the patrol method, providing adult leaders with a practical introduction to this core element of a Scout-led troop. You’ll experience firsthand how the patrol method functions, allowing you to effectively implement and promote it within your unit.
• Boost Your Leadership Skills: IOLS contributes to your personal growth as a leader. Beyond outdoor skills, you’ll gain valuable insights into leadership by learning effective teaching methods and activities used in engaging Scouting programs.
• Connect and Collaborate with Other Leaders: The course provides an excellent opportunity to connect with other Scout leaders from your area, share experiences, and build a network of support.
• Meet Training Requirements: IOLS is a required course for all Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters to be considered “trained”. It is also strongly recommended for other leaders who regularly participate in outdoor activities.

Don’t miss out on this valuable opportunity to develop your outdoor leadership skills and create memorable and impactful adventures for your Scouts. The confidence and knowledge you gain will undoubtedly enrich your Scouting journey and positively impact the young people you lead.

Next Course: August 23-24

Location: Cherokee Scout Reservation

Registration Deadline: Tuesday, August 19 at 11:59 pm

Registration Link: https://scoutingevent.com/070-iols

As a dedicated Cub Scout leader, you’re the backbone of exciting adventures for our young Scouts. You introduce them to new skills, instill values, and create lasting memories. One of the most impactful ways to enhance those experiences, especially in the great outdoors, is through Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) training.

Next Course: Sep 19-20, 2025

Location: Cherokee Scout Reservation

Registration Deadline: Tuesday, Sep 16 at 11:59 pm

Registration Link: https://scoutingevent.com/070-baloo

As Scouters, many dedicate their time to providing the best program possible for youth, nurturing their growth, and instilling Scouting values. Wood Badge is Scouting America’s premier adult leadership training course. It can help sharpen skills, deepen understanding, and become a more effective leader.

Wood Badge, originally created by Lord Baden-Powell, offers an experience designed to equip leaders at every level, from Cub Scout Den Leaders to seasoned Scoutmasters, with leadership tools applicable in Scouting and other areas of life. This training experience combines Scouting traditions with modern leadership theory.

Why Wood Badge?

• Stronger Units: Units with trained leaders, especially Wood Badge graduates, show a more positive impact on program quality, leader and youth tenure, safety, and overall success. Wood Badge equips leaders with skills to foster a more engaging and effective program for Scouts.
• A Deeper Understanding of Scouting: Wood Badge provides a comprehensive overview of Scouting, connecting the dots between programs and giving a deeper appreciation for the “why” and “how” behind everything.
• Enhanced Leadership Skills: The course focuses on practical application, covering topics crucial for effective leadership, including:
• Listening and Communication: Learn active and empathetic listening, essential for building strong relationships and understanding Scouts’ needs.
• Conflict Management: Develop strategies to navigate disagreements and foster a harmonious environment within the unit.
• Project Planning and Execution: Master skills to plan and successfully implement Scouting activities and events.
• Leading Change: Gain confidence and techniques to introduce and manage positive change within the unit.
• Team Development and Mentoring: Understand the stages of team development and learn how to coach and mentor both youth and adult leaders.
• Servant Leadership: Embrace the principle of “others first” leadership, empowering Scouts to take ownership and lead with confidence.
• Personal Growth and Self-Discovery: Many Wood Badge graduates report that the experience leads to significant personal growth, boosting self-confidence, uncovering untapped skills, and helping them become better individuals.
• A Network of Support: Wood Badge fosters lasting friendships and connections with other dedicated Scouters who share a passion for the program. This network becomes a valuable resource for advice, support, and shared experiences.
• A “Mountaintop” Experience: For many, Wood Badge is a defining “mountaintop experience” in their Scouting journey, rekindling their passion and providing inspiration to make a lasting difference.

Next Course:  September 26 – 28 and October 25-25, 2025 (you must attend both weekends)

Location: Cherokee Scout Reservation

Registration Deadline: August 15 at 11:59 pm

Registration Link: https://scoutingevent.com/070-woodbadge