Advancement and Recognition
What is Advancement?
Advancement is one of the methods used to achieve the aims of Scouting in all phases of Scouting (Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting and Venturing).
Advancement is the process by which youth members of the Boy Scouts of America progress from rank to rank in the Scouting program. Advancement is simply a means to an end, not an end in itself. Everything done to advance and earn these ranks, from joining until leaving the program, should be designed to help the young person have an exciting and meaningful experience. Education and fun are functions of the Scouting program, and they must be the basis of the advancement program.
Setting/achieving individual goals, and then being recognized are important methods of Scouting. The program provides a series of surmountable obstacles and steps to achieve them. Members progress at their own pace, choosing options that are of the most interest and those that are required. Participants grow in self-reliance and self-confidence through their mastery of the skills learned and through recognition for their achievements.
A fundamental principle of advancement in Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting and Venturing is the growth a young person achieves as a result of his or her participation in unit program.
Remember, no council, district, unit, or individual has the authority to add to or subtract from any advancement requirement (from the “Advancement Committee Policies and Procedures”).
Advancement Committee Responsibilities and Organization
Advancement Tracking, Reporting, and Recognition
New Youth Protection Guidelines (2010)
Advancement Newsletter
- Boy Scout Advancement Newsletter (.pdf)
- Cub Scout Advancement Newsletter (.pdf)
- Index of Newsletters (.pdf)