Previous page: The Scout Oath and Law
Chartering Organizations
Chartering organizations are groups that are offered a charter by their local Scout council to offer scouting programs to their local communities. The reasons that groups charter scouting units vary widely (e.g. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints embeds scouting in their Primary and Young Men's programs — every young boy or young man is automatically registered as a member of the age-appropriate scouting program). But all share the ultimate aims of Scouting — that is to promote character, citizenship, and fitness. In many cases, these programs are tied to other youth programs, are used as recruiting outreach to the community, or may simply be sponsored by a group of parents wanting a place for their children to do scouting.
It is not an overstatement to say that the chartering organization owns its scouting units — they have ultimate approval of unit leaders, are to ensure the unit has a place to meet, and have total authority over scouting units they charter. Without a chartering organization, a unit cannot exist. A good chartering organization generally will engender good scouting units. (A toxic relationship between the chartering organization and its scouting units is a danger sign.)
The chartering organizations with the most units or boys are The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, United Methodist Church, Catholic Church, Lutheran Church, American Legion, Lions Club International, Rotary International, United Church of Christ, Episcopal Church, and Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Various other community organizations charter scout units too.
The United Methodist Church says the Boy Scouting program provides ``sound, proven ways to instill values of character, citizenship, and respect for others while developing a strong reverence to God, self respect and self reliance.''
A statement from the National Catholic Committee on Scouting says ``the Scout Oath and Law of the Boy Scouts of America embody values and morals that are solidly Christian, indeed Catholic. Doing one's best; helping others at all times; paying attention to moral, mental and physical well-being; and striving to grow in virtue are all essential parts of Scouting.''
The American Legion says ``[s]upporting Boy Scout activities is natural for Legionnaires, who draw upon their service-learned skills and experiences as veterans to help build character and positive traits in young Americans. Few other post activities generate more goodwill from the community.''
Rotary International says ``the principles and goals of both organizations are closely allied. Character-building; service to country, to others, and to self; teaching leadership skills; and becoming aware of the world around us — these are all incorporated into the programs and activities of each organization. The values expressed in Rotary International's Motto and the Four Way Test [``Is it the truth? Is it fair? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?''] greatly parallel those articulated in the Scout Oath, Law, motto, and slogan.''
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) says that the Boy Scouting organization recognizes that religious principles are an important part of life and encourages the growth of family values. ``We desire all young men to strive to earn the Eagle Scout and Duty to God Awards. ... As youth work on these goals, they will develop skills and attributes that will lead them to the temple and prepare them for a lifetime of service to their families and the Lord.''
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