Community Service

The core values of Scouting are “to help other people at all times,” and to “do a good turn daily.”

While a Scout should do his best to help other people every day, a group service project is a bigger way to help people. ... Service projects may help the natural world, the community, or the chartered organization.

According the BSA Handbook, “A service project is a special Good Turn that puts Scout Spirit into action.” Some Good Turns are big—saving a life, helping out after disasters. But most Good Turns small, thoughtful acts—helping a child cross a busy street, or going to the store for an elderly neighbor.

Scouting Principles embody a commitment to service. One of the purposes of community service is to show leadership in service work.

Empowering Change through 'Scouting for Food'

Have you ever stopped to consider the startling fact that one out of every three individuals benefiting from food banks is a child? Presently, almost a quarter of those queuing up at soup kitchens are young children. Shockingly, over a third of the households seeking assistance from local food banks and pantries include innocent children. This year, our impactful 'Scouting for Food' initiative aims to make a difference by supporting over 150 pantries, kitchens, and resources across the vibrant landscapes of New Hampshire.

Marking an annual tradition, during the inaugural weekend of November, a coalition of dedicated participants including Cub Scouts, Scouts, Venturers, Sea Scouts, Explorers, and their compassionate leaders will canvass their neighborhoods and regions, leaving behind 'Scouting for Food' door hangers. On the subsequent Saturday, these young Scouts will revisit these same areas, collecting generously donated non-perishable food items thoughtfully placed outside. These valuable contributions will then be transported to conveniently accessible drop-off points within their local communities.

For those seeking more details or wishing to be part of this noble endeavor, please reach out to us at scoutingforfood@nhscouting.org. Let's join hands to drive positive change and combat hunger together."

Scouting for Food

Troop 19, Noverber 6, 2021

Scouting for Food is a project rooted in the very foundation of the Scouting movement and its dedication to implement the Scout Slogan and do a good turn daily.

Scouting for Food is an ongoing annual program of the Boy Scouts of America, begun in 1985 by the Greater Saint Louis Area Council. The program involves collecting for local food banks. It is organized at the local level throughout the country.

Across the country thousands of troops and packs with millions of scouts collect tens of millions of pounds of food which is distributed to needy neighbors.

The Eagle Scout Service Project is a pivotal and defining component of the journey towards attaining the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America. This project encapsulates the Scout's leadership, planning, and organizational skills as they conceive, design, and execute a meaningful community service initiative. Guided by the principles of service and leadership, the Scout identifies a need within their community, formulates a comprehensive plan, secures the necessary resources, and engages fellow Scouts and volunteers in its implementation. The project not only showcases the Scout's ability to lead and manage a team but also underscores their commitment to making a lasting, positive impact on society. By completing their Eagle Scout Service Project, Scouts demonstrate their readiness to embody the values of responsibility, integrity, and service, marking a significant milestone on their path to becoming responsible and engaged citizens.