Shenandoah Area Council Life to Eagle Guidebook

Transcription

1 Shenandoah Area Council Life to Eagle Guidebook For Scouts Leaders Parents June 1, 2016

2 PURPOSE The purpose of this document is to provide guidance to Life Scouts, Scouters and Parents in the Shenandoah Area Council on the policies and procedures relating to the Eagle rank and to address commonly asked questions and issues. This information is intended to supplement the BSA publications listed in the References section. It is not intended to answer all questions. National BSA policies and procedures, as stated in national publications, have precedence over this Shenandoah Area Council document. In the event of conflicting information between revisions of national documents, the most current publication will prevail, unless specifically stated herein. Throughout this document, use of the title Scout also refers to a member of a Varsity Team, Venturing Crew, or Sea Scout Ship. Likewise, Unit Leader implies Troop Scoutmaster, Varsity Team Coach, Venturing Crew Advisor, or Sea Scout Skipper. This document addresses those areas in which the BSA policies allow Council discretion and presents procedures for carrying out BSA policy within the Shenandoah Area Council. An electronic version of this document is posted on the Council s website under Eagle Scout Life to Eagle Information. If you, or a Unit Leader or an Eagle Scout candidate, are unsure of a particular step or requirement, you should not hesitate to contact your District Advancement Chairperson or District Eagle Scout Committee Chair. A few minutes in phone calls at the right time can save days or weeks of confusion for either the Eagle Scout candidate or his leaders. Many of our Districts conduct Life-to-Eagle Seminars/Conferences. All Life Scouts, parents of Life Scouts, and interested Scouters are strongly encouraged to attend one of these seminars/conferences. In addition to providing the most current information on the Eagle Scout Service Project and other Eagle Scout rank requirements, these seminars/conferences provide the opportunity to address recent issues and answer questions. If an Eagle Scout candidate's home District does not offer a Life to Eagle seminar/conference or if it is more convenient, he may attend a seminar or conference in a neighboring district. This document is intended to accompany the official BSA Boy Scout Requirements in obtaining the rank of Eagle Scout. No one can add or subtract from the Boy Scout Requirements and BSA Eagle Scout Rank Requirements supersede this publication. Page 2 of 58

3 Table of Contents So You Want To Be an Eagle Scout?... 6 Introduction... 7 Age Requirement Eligibility... 9 Complete Base Requirements Requirement 1 Be Active In Scouting Requirement 2 Live the Principals of Scouting. (Letters of Recommendation) Requirement 3 Earn 21 Merit Badges Requirement 4 Serve in a Position of Responsibility Eagle Scout Service Project Requirement 5 Complete a Service Project Obtain the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook Review the Project Workbook with Your Eagle Project Coach Select an Organization and Service Project Idea Restricted Projects Purpose of the Project Project Restrictions Example Projects Review Project Concept with Scoutmaster Complete the Contact Information (Page 6) Complete Project Proposal (Pages 7-10) Project Description and Benefit Giving Leadership Materials Supplies Tools Permits and Permissions Preliminary Cost Estimate Project Phases Logistics Page 3 of 58

4 Safety Issues Further Planning Project Proposal Approvals Prepare Project Final Plan (Pages 11 17) Eagle Scout Service Project Final Plan Cover (Page 11) Present Conditions or Situation (Page 12) Work Processes (Page 12) Giving Leadership (page 15) Carrying Out the Project: Recruiting Volunteers Motivating Your Team Track Your Hours Document the Process Write up Project Report (Pages 19 20) The Application Submittal Process Write a Statement of Your Ambitions and Life Purpose Sign Your Eagle Scout Application Requirement 6 Take Part in a Scoutmaster Conference Common Problems with Final Application Get Signature of Troop Committee Chair Submit Application to the Council Service Center Council Review of Application District Scheduling of Board of Review... Error! Bookmark not defined. Requirement 7 Successfully Complete a Board of Review... Error! Bookmark not defined. Purpose of the Board of Review Preparing for Your Board of Review What to Bring & What to Wear... Error! Bookmark not defined. The Review and Sample Questions Board of Reviews Decision Page 4 of 58

5 Appealing a Decision... Error! Bookmark not defined. After the Board of Review... Error! Bookmark not defined. Council Certification of the Board of Review Obtaining the Eagle Scout Award Receiving the Eagle Scout Rank... Error! Bookmark not defined. The Eagle Court of Honor National Eagle Scout Association Other References Page 5 of 58

6 So You Want To Be an Eagle Scout? Congratulations on achieving the rank of Life Scout! You are onestep away from the highest rank in Boy Scouts. Becoming an Eagle Scout will be joining a special group of other Scouts who have earned this achievement and distinction in the last 100 years. You will find that the requirements for Eagle Scout are not much different from the requirements you met for your other ranks, just at a more challenging level. This guidebook has been developed to help explain the process of advancing from Life to Eagle. The purpose of this document is to provide a single reference to the resources you will need to complete your trail to Eagle. Please take the time to read this guidebook. If you are unsure about anything you read, talk with your adult unit leaders. It is especially important that you understand the procedures for developing your Eagle Scout Service Project. Achieving the Eagle rank is your responsibility. Many people will help you along the way, including your unit leader, your parents, community members and fellow scouts. You will get assistance from adults on your district youth development committee, many of whom you have probably never worked with before. None of these people can earn the rank for you. It is up to you to make sure that you understand the requirements, complete them in a timely manner and submit the proper documents to receive your rank advancement. Enjoy the Eagle trail! District Eagle Scout Committee Chair (or whoever you want to sign this guide book) Page 6 of 58

7 Introduction The purpose of this guidebook and the references shown below, are to provide you, the scout, with the information and tools to successfully make your journey from Life to Eagle Scout. The layout of this document will take you through completing the Eagle Rank Application and the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook field by field and answer questions as you go along. Scouts with a disability should contact the District Advancement Committee Chair for additional information. The Eagle rank advancement introduces some new adult roles to the advancement process than you have not worked with before. Troop Eagle Coach - The Eagle Coach is a troop based position that help you understand the specific requirements that need to be completed to achieve the rank of Eagle and specifically help you through the Eagle Scout Service Project. District Eagle Scout Committee Chair This individual coordinates the review of your Eagle Scout Service Project, and your Eagle Scout Board of Review. Council Eagle Scout Service Project Review Board A group of Scouters that review your preliminary Eagle Scout Service Project, make recommendations for changes and approves the service project proposal prior to actually starting the work. IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PARENTS: The rank of Eagle Scout is only obtained by young men who work hard and take initiative. As your son s parents we ask you to step back and let them take the lead. Becoming an Eagle Scout is not for all boys and should not be forced on a scout. Please encourage, motivate, and support your son. It is their responsibility not yours to contact the troop, district, or the council on the status of various steps. Please let them take that responsibility. If you have unanswered questions regarding the requirements, contact your troop Eagle Coach, Scoutmaster, your troop Advancement Committee Chair, or your District Eagle Scout Committee Chair. What to Do First Page 7 of 58

8 1. Create a Life to Eagle Notebook. Obtain a copy of the following documents. These are available on the Boy Scout National, Council and Troop website. Be sure you use current copies. Read all the material carefully and completely. If you have any questions, talk to your Scoutmaster or Eagle Coach. You should download a copy of each of these documents and print out each and put them in a 3 ring binder. This will save you a lot of time later. a. Current Official BSA Eagle Rank Requirements b. Eagle Scout Rank Application c. Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook ookprocedures.aspx d. Guide to Advancement Chapter 9 - The Eagle Scout Rank e. Life to Eagle Guidebook (this document) f. Life to Eagle Scout Checklist (this document) g. Confidential Eagle Scout Reference Form Find this on the council advancement forms webpage. h. Additional Useful References: i. The Boy Scout Handbook (34554): Your handbook contains requirements for all ranks and should have a signed record of your advancements from the Boy Scout badge through Life rank. ii. The Guide to Safe Scouting (34416): This document contains the official BSA policies regarding health and safety. Your project must be conducted in accordance with these policies. It is available on the national BSA website at 2. Meet with your Troop Eagle Coach - As soon as you become a Life Scout, request a meeting with your Scoutmaster and Troop Advancement Committee Chair to discuss your plan to become an Eagle Scout. They will help you set goals and a timeline for completion. They will also suggest an Eagle Coach at this time. The earlier the better. Page 8 of 58

9 Review Your Official BSA Records Contact your Troop Advancement Chair and ask them to verify your records as shown in both the National BSA database and run an individual advancement report from your Unit s data base (i.e. TroopMaster, Scoutbook, etc.). You can review your records on your Unit s Web site. Now is the time to make any corrections to insure the national advancement records match your unit s records. Your application data needs to match the BSA National Database. Age Requirement Eligibility BSA Requirement: Merit badges, badges of rank, and Eagle Palms may be earned by a registered Boy Scout, Varsity Scout, Venturer, or Sea Scout. He may earn these awards until his 18th birthday. Any Venturer or Sea Scout who achieved the First Class rank as a Boy Scout in a troop or Varsity Scout in a team may continue working for the Star, Life, and Eagle Scout ranks and Eagle Palms while registered as a Venturer or Sea Scout up to his 18th birthday. Scouts, Venturers, and Sea Scouts who have completed all requirements prior to their 18th birthday may be reviewed within three months after that date with no explanation. Refer to the Guide to Advancement, No , section , for boards of review to be held between three and six months, or more than six months after the 18th birthday. If a scout wants to report they are an Eagle Scout on a college application they should plan on having their Eagle Board of Review completed before November of their senior year in high school. Page 9 of 58

10 Make sure this date is the same as in your Unit s data base and the BSA Database. What must be done before the Scout s 18th birthday? All requirements 1 through 6. All work on your Eagle Scout leadership service project. The following can take place after your 18th birthday. Final signatures including the "Certification by the Applicant" and "Unit Approval." Delivery of your Eagle Scout Rank Application to the Shenandoah Area Council Service Center Registrar. Receipt of letters of recommendation by District Eagle Scout Committee Chair. Council certification of your Eagle Scout Rank Application. District Eagle Scout rank Board of Review Earning your Eagle rank before your 18th birthday means you will be able to wear the Eagle Scout badge on your uniform. You may not wear the Eagle Scout rank badge as an adult after your 18th birthday, however you should wear your Eagle Scout Knot with pride as an adult leader. Complete Base Requirements You may complete Eagle rank advancement requirements 1 5 in any order after you have passed your Life Scout Bard of Review. Requirement 1 Be Active In Scouting Be active in your troop, team, crew, or ship for a period of at least six months after you have achieved the rank of Life Scout. Page 10 of 58

11 NOTE: Use the date that is on your individual advancement report from the Unit s data base or your Unit s Advancement Chair. When is a Scout Considered Active? The following is from the Guide to Advancement Active Participation: The purpose of Star, Life, and Eagle Scout requirements calling for Scouts to be active for a period of months involves impact. Since we prepare young people to go forth, and essentially, make a positive difference in our American society, we judge that a member is active when his level of activity in Scouting, whether high or minimal, has had a sufficiently positive influence toward this end. Use the following three sequential tests to determine whether the requirement has been met. The first and second are required, along with either the third or its alternative. 1. The Scout is registered. The youth is registered in his unit for at least the time period indicated in the requirement, and he has indicated in some way, through word or action, that he considers himself a member. If a boy was supposed to have been registered, but for whatever reason was not, discuss with the Shenandoah Area Ccouncil registrar the possibility of back-registering him. 2. The Scout is in good standing. A Scout is considered in good standing with his unit as long as he has not been dismissed for disciplinary reasons. He must also be in good standing with the Shenandoah Area Council and the National Boy Scouts of America. 3. The Scout meets the unit s reasonable expectations; or, if not, a lesser level of activity is explained. If, for the time period required, a Scout or qualifying Venturer or Sea Scout meets those aspects of his unit s pre-established expectations that refer to a level of activity, then he is considered active and the requirement is met. Time counted as active need not be consecutive. A boy may piece together any times he has been active and still qualify. Alternative to the third test if expectations are not met: If a young man has fallen below his unit s activity oriented expectations, then it must be due to other positive endeavors in or out of Scouting or to noteworthy circumstances that have prevented a higher level of participation. In this case a Scout is Page 11 of 58

12 considered active if a board of review can agree that Scouting values have already taken hold and been exhibited. This might be evidenced, for example, in how he lives his life and relates to others in his community, at school, in his religious life, or in Scouting. It is also acceptable to consider and count positive activities outside Scouting when they, too, contribute to his growth in character, citizenship, or personal fitness. Remember; it is not so much about what a Scout has done. It is about what he is able to do and how he has grown. Requirement 2 Live the Principals of Scouting. (Letters of Recommendation) BSA Requirement: Demonstrate that you live by the principles of the Scout Oath and Law in your daily life. List the names of individuals who know you personally and would be willing to provide a recommendation on your behalf. You will need to ask 5-6 people to provide a written letter of recommendation about their observations about how you live out the principals of scouting in your daily life. It is recommended that you start this process early in your Eagle Scout rank process so it will not delay you when you get your service project completed. The six required references are: 1. Parents or guardians 2. Religious 3. Educational 4. Employer (If any) 5. Two other references Page 12 of 58

13 Note on Employer reference: If you do not have an employer you may leave the field blank. Note on religious reference: If your personal religious practices don't include interaction with a pastor, rabbi, priest, or some similar person, you should consider someone else who is your spiritual advisor. In some situations this might be your parent or guardian. If a scout is home-schooled by a parent, use other educational sources: music lessons; a sports coach; etc. It should be someone who has a major role in one of your educational pursuits. Talk to six people that know you and ask if they would be willing to submit a letter of reference. Explain what it is for and answer any questions they might have. 1. Let them know they may be contacted by someone from the Shenandoah Area Council, District Advancement Committee or District Eagle Scout Committee about their reference. The ed reference forms or separate letters of reference must be mailed to the Shenandoah Area Council Registrar directly and not given back to you. 2. Once the Shenandoah Area Council Registrar has the list of your references and their contact information, the registrar will send out an to them requesting they fill out the council s Eagle Scout Reference Forms and return them to the registrar as soon as possible. Scouts are not responsible for follow-through or any other aspect of the reference letter process. It is up to the Council Registrar to contact your unit leader and to make every effort to collect the responses. If, after a reasonable effort no response can be obtained from any references, the board of review must go on without them. It may not be postponed or denied for this reason, and the Scout may not be asked to submit additional references or to provide replacements. Completed reference responses of any kind are the property of the Council, are confidential, and only reviewed by board of review members and those officials with a specific need may see them. The responses are not to be viewed by, or returned to, the Scout. Doing so could discourage the submission of negative information. For the same reason, those providing references shall not be given the option of waiving confidentiality. Once a review has been held, or an appeal process conducted, responses shall be returned to the Council Registrar, where they will be destroyed after the Eagle Scout credentials are released or the appeal is concluded. Guide to Advancement Requirement 3 Earn 21 Merit Badges BSA Requirement: Earn a total of 21 merit badges (required badges are listed below). List the month, day, and year the merit badge was earned. Use the dates from the Unit s data base. Page 13 of 58

14 Earn a total of 21 merit badges including the following: (a) First Aid, (b) Citizenship in the Community, (c) Citizenship in the Nation, (d) Citizenship in the World, (e) Communications, (f) Personal Fitness, (g) Emergency Preparedness OR Lifesaving, (h) Environmental Science OR Sustainability(effective 1/1/2014), (i) Personal Management, (j) Swimming OR Hiking OR Cycling, (k) Camping and( l) Family Life, (j) Cooking(effective 1/1/2014). Where there is an option for a required badge such as Emergency Preparedness or Lifesaving, the badge(s) not used as the required badge may be used as one of the non required badges. Be sure to cross out badges not earned where there is an alternate. Remember: Three of the merit badges (Personal Fitness, Personal Management, and Family Life) require specific time based tracking and take at least three months to complete. You cannot keep records for three months in only three weeks. Don t wait until the last moment. Requirement 4 Serve in a Position of Responsibility BSA Requirement: While a Life Scout, serve actively for a period of six months in one or more positions of responsibility. List only those positions served after Life board of review date. Boy Scout Troop. Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader, Troop Guide, Order Of The Arrow Troop Representative, Den Chief, Scribe, Librarian, Historian, Quartermaster, Junior Assistant Scoutmaster, Chaplain Aide, Instructor, Webmaster, Or Leave No Trace Trainer. Page 14 of 58

15 Varsity Scout Team. Captain, Co-captain, Program Manager, Squad Leader, Team Secretary, Order Of The Arrow Team Representative, Librarian, Quartermaster, Chaplain Aide, Instructor, Den Chief, Webmaster, Or Leave No Trace Trainer. Venturing Crew/Ship. President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Boatswain, Boatswain's Mate, Yeoman, Purser, Storekeeper, Webmaster, Or Leave No Trace Trainer. No listed position is more important or qualifying than the others. You may serve in more than one position to fulfill the six months requirement and the time does not need to be continuous. These roles can be either Scoutmaster assigned or elected by the unit. Note: Bugler, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Scribe, Patrol Quartermaster do not satisfy this requirement. When you are deciding on which role to take on walk yourself through these steps, if you get stuck, pick another role: a. Are you passionate or at least interested in that position? b. Will it challenge you, or bore you to death? c. Will you be able to manage your time and tasks to make sure you can fulfill your responsibilities and duties? If not, who would you be able to turn to help you (delegation is key in higher positions of responsibility), is there anyone? Page 15 of 58

16 You must actually serve in the position(s) of responsibility, not just have the title. The board of review will ask you to discuss your duties and describe how you fulfilled them. Senior Scouts have an obligation to train you (an your Scoutmaster may observe and make some recommendations for improvement) in their leadership positions, but it is up to you to fulfill the requirements. Your Scoutmaster will also be ascertaining if you are fulfilling the requirements of your position of responsibility. If you are not doing so you may be removed from the position. If you are not sure, check in with your Scoutmaster from time-to-time and get feedback. Requesting a Scoutmasters Conference is a good way to get the feedback. Dates listed must be after your Life board of review date and must cover a full 6 months across any number of positions. Do not put Present as the end date. From the Guide to Advancement: Meeting Unit Expectations. If a unit has established expectations for positions of responsibility, and if, within reason (see the note under Rank Requirements Overview, ), based on his personal skill set, the Scout meets them, he fulfills the requirement. When a Scout assumes a position, something related to the desired results must happen. It is a disservice to the Scout and to the unit to reward work that has not been done. Holding a position and doing nothing, producing no results, is unacceptable. Some degree of responsibility must be practiced, taken, or accepted.. It is unfair and inappropriate after six months, for example to surprise a boy who thinks he has been doing fine, with news that his performance is now considered unsatisfactory. In this case, he must be given credit for the time. See: Positions of Responsibility in Guide to Advancement for more details. Eagle Scout Service Project Requirement 5 Complete a Service Project BSA Requirement: While a Life Scout, plan, develop, and give leadership to others in a service project helpful to any religious institution, any school, or your community. (The project must benefit an organization other than Boy Scouting.) A project proposal must be approved by the organization benefiting from the effort, your unit leader, you unit committee, and the Shenandoah Area Council project review committee before you start. You must use the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, No , in meeting this requirement. Page 16 of 58

17 Use the latest Completion Approval date from your Eagle Scout Service Project Report section of your workbook on page 20. The Eagle Scout service project differs in an important way from other service activity you have done for earlier ranks. You must plan, develop and lead the entire project. You must show leadership of at least two people. The project will provide an opportunity for you to use many of the skills you have learned while earning merit badges such as Communication, Citizenship in the Community and Personal Management. This will be one of the most challenging and timeconsuming parts of advancing to Eagle. The KEY to this project is demonstrating leadership, which should be easy after your various leadership responsibilities in the troop and ascension through the ranks. You should plan on your project taking somewhere from 2-6 months to complete everything from initial idea, planning, approval, through conducting the project, final report and final acceptances. Obtain the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook BSA in October 2016 issues a new workbook to help with the planning and reporting for your project. You can download an updated version from the BSA website. ( Page 17 of 58

18 is version is a pdf editable version. It is very important to only use this version versus other versions you might find on the internet. If you need to type more than will fit in any section simply create a separate document and write See separate document on the official form. The workbook is divided into three major parts. Proposal - The first section is for writing your proposal which explains what you plan on doing. It must be approved by your unit leader, beneficiary organization, unit committee, and Shenandoah Area Council Eagle Scout project committee before you begin any work on your project. This makes sure everyone is in agreement on what the project is going to be about. Only the Official Workbook May Be Used Eagle Scout candidates must use the official Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, No , as produced by the Boy Scouts of America. The official fillable PDF version can be found at Although it is acceptable to copy and distribute the workbook, it must maintain the same appearance with nothing changed, added, or deleted. No council, district, unit, or individual has the authority to produce or require additional forms, or to add or change requirements, or to make any additions, deletions, or changes in the text, outlines, links, graphics, or other layout or informational elements of workbook. It is permissible, however, to print, copy, or send individual pages or forms within the workbook as long as they are not changed in the process. Final Plan This section helps you detail out all the specifics of what needs to happen to make sure it is a successful project. Project Report This section is for reporting the details of what really happened with the project. Review the Project Workbook with Your Eagle Project Coach Your Unit has some adults who are willing to serve as your Eagle Project Coach. Contact the Unit Advancement Committee Chair to get assigned a Coach. The coach is not part of the proposal approval. Though it is a Scout s option, coaches are highly recommended especially those who are knowledgeable and experienced with project approvals. Their greatest value comes in the advice they provide after approval of a proposal as a candidate completes his planning. A coach can help him see that, if a plan is not sufficiently developed, then projects can fail. Assistance can Page 18 of 58

19 come through evaluating a plan and discussing its strengths, weaknesses, and risks. Coaches shall not have the authority to dictate changes, withdraw approval of the proposal, or take any other such directive action. Instead, coaches must use the BSA method of positive adult association, logic, and common sense to help the candidate make the right decisions. Select an Organization and Service Project Idea Review the workbook and think about various project ideas. Most qualified organizations will be happy for you to do an Eagle service project for their benefit. The religious organization or school you attend, are good places to start. Project opportunities can also be found at public parks and community organizations. Be creative, innovative, and open-minded about what projects might be right in front of you that you hadn t considered before. There are massive projects, small projects, complex projects, simple projects, and everything in between. But, none of that matters; what matters most is that you pick a meaningful project. There will be days when you will not want to do a thing because you are exhausted or overworked. So, you need a project that you can pick-up and run with no matter how much you might want to sleep in that weekend. Or maybe even a project which you are passionate about, a project which motivates you to keep working. These are the types of projects which are hard work but fun and worthwhile in the end. Many people not openly state this, but many Eagle Scouts are remembered by their projects, and can often dominate the conversation between you and a total stranger, when you both find out you are an Eagle Scout. Pick a project you will be proud of and passionate about, then you can never go wrong. That said; make sure that you have a project that is actually feasible; Rome wasn t built in a day. Restricted Projects There are restrictions, however, on the type of organization for which you may do your project. It is important that you make sure the organization that benefits from your project meets the BSA guidelines. Your unit leadership can help with this. Some ineligible project types include: Work involving any BSA activities, including council property, projects that benefit the troop or crew, is not acceptable for an Eagle Scout service project. You may not do a project for a business, be of a commercial nature or be a fund raiser. You may not consider routine labor such as a job or good turn you normally do as a Scout. You cannot use fund raising as the goal of your project. Page 19 of 58

20 Purpose of the Project In addition to providing service and fulfilling the part of the Scout Oath, to help other people at all times, one of the primary purposes of the Eagle Scout service project is to demonstrate or hone, or to learn and develop, leadership skills. Related to this are important lessons in project management and taking responsibility for a significant accomplishment. Choosing a Project The Eagle Project must demonstrate leadership of others and provide service to a worthy institution other than the Boy Scouts. This may be a religious institution, school, or your community. See the first page of the Eagle Scout Leadership Service Project Workbook for all BSA requirements and limitations. You should try to choose a project idea which is valuable to the community and a challenge to you. It does not have to be an original idea, but you must do all of the planning for your project and may not use someone else's plan. The project may not be routine labor (like cutting the grass at the church or picking up trash along the road). It may not benefit the BSA or any Scout property or any business or individual. Fundraising is only permitted to obtain money to pay for materials you need for your project. The project may not be a fund-raiser in itself. Your project workers may include members of your or other Scout units, or may be done entirely by non-scouts, if you choose. While not required, it is a good idea to get a troop leader (other than your Scoutmaster) to serve as your project coach. This leader can help you choose a project, help you determine what needs to be done in planning it, and help you get the write-up ready to go to the council or district for approval. Always take detailed notes when talking to your advisor you cannot remember things nearly as well as you can read them from your notes later. Your advisor may not want to tell you the same thing again and again. While it is nice to do projects for your sponsoring organization, it is not at all required. Project ideas can be found in many places: in the newspaper, at your church, at your school, or from community organizations. Let the word out that you are looking for project ideas and see what input you get. As you look around for ideas, write down several which interests you. You should not spend much time actually planning a project until you have talked the idea over with your Scoutmaster or troop's Eagle Project Advisor to insure that it is a valid idea. Also, be aware, that the Council or District Advancement Committee (as appropriate in your local council) is the final approval authority of the project idea, as well as the detail plan (before beginning the actual Page 20 of 58

21 work), and the final report (after all work in complete). If there is any doubt about your idea being a valid project, you or a troop leader should contact the Council or District Advancement Committee and get their buy-in before spending a lot of time planning a project they will not accept. The project cannot be for the benefit of a business or individual. Not benefiting a business is straightforward, since that is a commercial enterprise. However, Scouts occasionally get confused about helping a needy individual. Building a wheelchair ramp at an elderly person s home would seem like a worthy project, but the BSA does not permit that (see the Limitations section of the Eagle Project Workbook). Whereas building a wheelchair ramp at a church or community building is acceptable. Keep this in mind when choosing a project. You may choose to build something, do service for someone, present a program to a group, or correct a problem area for the benefit of an authorized organization. There are many Internet web sites devoted to Eagle Project ideas. Example Projects Some examples of projects that have been done in the past are: Built church sign Landscaped church grounds Repaired church playground Constructed an Edible Landscape Demonstration Area in a community garden Built church janitor closet Repaired & cleaned out storage shed Built chuck boxes for Girl Scout troop Repaired church home for aged & sponsored social event for residents Built newspaper re-cycling bins for Elementary School Built bull-pens, dugout roofs for High School baseball field Built cabinets for Sunday School rooms Repaired, re-roofed, landscaped church gazebo Built American Flag Ceremonial Burn Pit and Campfire Circle Page 21 of 58

22 The Shenandoah Area Council 2015 Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams National Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award winner Edible Landscape Demonstration Area Ranson West Virginia Old Town Community Garden. Page 22 of 58

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25 Some other project idea sites /how for-an-eagle-scout-service-project Project Restrictions Restrictions There are no required minimum hours for a project. No one may tell you how many hours must be spent on it. Routine labor is not normally appropriate for a project. This might be defined as a job or service you may provide as part of your daily life, or a routine maintenance job normally done by the beneficiary (for example, pulling weeds on the football field of our school.) While projects may not be of a commercial nature or for a business, this is not meant to disallow work for community institutions, such as museums and service agencies (like homes for the elderly, for example), that would otherwise be acceptable. Some aspect of a business operation provided as a community service may also be considered (for example, a park open to the public that happens to be owned by a business). A project may not be a fundraiser. In other words, it may not be an effort that primarily collects money, even for a worthy charity. Fundraising is permitted only for securing materials and facilitating a project, and it may need to be approved by the Council. See Eagle Scout Service Project Fundraising Application on page. No more than one Eagle Scout candidate may receive credit for working on the same Eagle Scout service project. Projects may not be performed for the Boy Scouts of America, or its councils, districts, units, or properties. Page 25 of 58

26 Review Project Concept with the Troop Eagle Project Coach Discuss your project concept with the group you intend to help. Be sure you both understand and come to agreement as to what they need and what you will do. This is not a required step but highly recommended so you don t spend time writing up a project proposal for a project that does not qualify. Verbally discuss your project idea with the Troop Eagle Project Coach to be sure it is an acceptable project as required by BSA guidelines. Contact your District Eagle Scout Committee Chair if you have questions. Make any required revisions. Page 26 of 58

27 Complete the Contact Information (Proposal Page A) Complete the form with all the key contacts. Use the contacts below. Insert copy of blank first page of the workbook Page 27 of 58

28 Complete Project Proposal (Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, proposal pages A through E) The first phase of your service project is to write a project proposal and get it approved. Your proposal must be completed first. It is an overview, but also the beginnings of planning. It shows your unit leader, unit committee, district and council that the following tests can be met. For your proposal to be approved, it must show the following: 1. It provides sufficient opportunity to meet the Eagle Scout service project requirement. You must show that planning, development, and leadership will take place; and how the three factors will benefit a religious institution, a school, or your community. 2. It appears to be feasible. You must show the project is realistic for you to complete. 3. Safety issues will be addressed. You must show you have an understanding of what must be done to guard against injury, and what will be done if someone does get hurt. 4. Action steps for further detailed planning are included. You must make a list of the key steps you will take to make sure your plan has enough details to be carried out successfully. 5. You are on the right track with a reasonable chance for a positive experience. Your proposal need only be detailed enough to show a reviewer that you can meet the tests above. If you find in order to do that, the proposal must be lengthy and complicated; your project might be more complex than necessary. If your project does not require materials or supplies, etc., simply mark those spaces not applicable. Remember, do not begin any work or raise any money or obtain any materials until your project proposal has been approved. If you submit your proposal too close to your 18th birthday, it may not be approved in time to finish planning and executing the project. Some Helpful hints for developing your project proposal: 1. Make it easy for your project to get approved. Provide all the information needed to understand your project. The more detail the better, as long as the detail is relevant. Remember that your project proposal may be the only information the committee has about your project. If there are details you do not include, the committee will not have all the information they need to evaluate. 2. Write clearly and format your project neatly, so that it is easy to read. Write the project proposal so that it reflects the standard of excellence expected of an Eagle Scout. 3. As you come up with an idea and begin to develop your project, keep a record or journal of everything that happens and record the time you spend on any activity related to your Page 28 of 58

29 project. When you have completed your project, you will need to include the hours you spent during the planning stage. 4. The Eagle Scout Service Project takes time. You should plan the start of your project so you have plenty of time to complete it prior to your eighteenth birthday. 5. The paperwork takes much longer to complete than expected. Project Description and Benefit You should give a simple, but specific, description of your project. Your project must have measurable goals/deliverables. Having specific goals is the only way to measure your project and know if you have met those goals. In order to approve your project, the Shenandoah Area Council/District Eagle Scout service project review committee needs to know exactly what you plan to do. Be sure to give quantities of whatever product your project will produce, for example: the number of benches, the number of trees or the length of a trail section. This is not the place to tell how you are going to build something, how long it is going to take, what materials you are going to use, or any details of that nature. Those things will come later in the workbook. Describe how your project will be of benefit to the group. Giving Leadership One of the primary goals of your project is to demonstrate leadership skills. Your proposal must show that you understand what leadership is. Some of the factors that show your understanding of leadership are: Initiative and effective communication with the benefiting organization Thorough planning Making contacts for permitting, donations of materials and so forth Understanding how team members will be organized and instructed to complete the work of the project Leading the work and assigning tasks to team members, rather than relying on adults to provide leadership or having them do tasks that can be performed by youth Inspecting the work to assure that it was done properly Dealing with change and unexpected obstacles Develop a financial plan and securing funding for the project, rather than asking family to pay for it. Page 29 of 58

30 For ideas on what leadership means, review the leadership principles you learned in leader training you received as a Scout. Incorporate these principles into your project plan. Materials Describe the materials to be used; "Materials" is a broad category including materials that will become part of your project, supplies that may be used up or discarded but necessary to do the work. A suggestion is to list of all materials, supplies and tools in a chart or table, including where you are going to obtain them, and how much each will cost or its value if it will be donated. Supplies Describe all the supplies that you will use up. These are items like tape, tarps and garbage bags. You do not need to have exact quantities yet but you need to show you know what you will need to make the project a success. Tools Identify the types of tools you will need for your project. Will you need power tools, where will you get the tools? Who will be authorized to use various tools? Will you have to rent the tools? Show that you understand everything that is needed to complete your deliverables. Permits and Permissions You must address the need for required permits. You should not apply for permits prior to project approval but you should have copies of any needed forms required to obtain the permits. Permits should be requested by the beneficiary organization. Remember, the permitting process can take some time, so plan accordingly. Preliminary Cost Estimate Page 30 of 58

31 Estimate the total cost of the project to determine what funding you might need. Most projects require fundraising of some form; even it is coming from the beneficiary organization. You do not need to have exact costs. The reviewers just need to know if it is reasonable for there to be enough funds raised to carry out the project. If funding is needed beyond contributions from the scout, his parents or relatives, the troop or members and families of the troop, or the beneficiary, then a Fundraising Application must be completed. Review the procedure and limitations on. Project Phases Divide your project into logical phases that need to be completed. It is good to start with finishing your planning, securing funding, getting permits and permissions, securing materials and supplies, gathering tools. You can also detail out the events that will happen on the day(s) of the project build or work. Breaking down the project into different phases will help prepare you for defining out specific tasks you want people to do for you. Logistics How will you handle the logistics and transportation of materials, supplies, tools, and helpers? Will you need a Tour Permit? Will you need electrical power at the site? How will you get it? What about water, restrooms, Tarp tents to provide shelter if it rains or provide shade for the workers. Remember you are the host for this event and you want to make your helpers comfortable. Safety Issues Describe any safety hazards and explain how you will ensure the safety of those carrying out the project; almost every Eagle project has some potential safety hazards. Anticipating the hazards your team members will face, and developing ways to make sure they are safe, are important aspects of leadership. The Guide to Safe Scouting discusses BSA policies for two deep adult leadership and other youth protection issues as well as the BSA policies regarding the kinds of activities Scouts are permitted to participate in and address safety requirements for activities. Pay special attention to the Guide to Safe Scouting requirements for using any power tools Page 31 of 58

32 and/or other tools and equipment. You must tell what precautions you will take and provisions you will make for first aid and emergency medical treatment. Prepare a safety brief ahead of time so when you have the actual workday, you are prepared to give the briefing to those helping you. Always have a fully stocked first aid kit at the work site. Further Planning In this section you want to list the things you need to do next. How will you complete the final plan? What do you still need to get accomplished? This will help you make sure you are heading in the right direction. Remember, things will change as your progress and that s OK. Expect it and make adjustments along the way. Plan the work and work the plan. Project Proposal Approvals There are four approvals that are needed for the project proposal Beneficiary Representative, Unit Leader, Unit Committee, and Council Eagle Scout service project review board. While the first three can officially be done in any order, you might find it beneficial to get the approvals first from the Beneficiary Representative, then Unit Leader, then the Unit Committee and finally the Council approval. Beneficiary This is the most important approval since the purpose of your project is to provide the organization with some very specific benefits. Meet with your contact for those whom you are doing the service project for. You need to go over your proposal in detail and make sure everything is to their liking. This proposal should include what you are doing and generally how you are planning to do it. Materials and funding are always the biggest of concerns and should be relatively thoroughly planned out. Once they are happy with your project make sure to get their signature. Unit Leader The Unit Leader can help make sure your project is adhering to BSA policies. Next you are to contact the Unit Leader to set an appointment time to review your proposal and to get his input. If the Unit Leader is pleased and sees no changes are necessary then ensure you obtain the Unit Leader s signature. Changes may also need to be made. Remember, stay flexible. Unit Committee The Unit Committee can help you think through some of the details on your project. This can be very helpful as you prepare to complete your detailed plan. Contact the Unit Advancement Committee Chairman and ask for an Eagle Service Project Board of Review. At the appointed date and time be prepared to present your entire project to the Unit Committee. Wear Page 32 of 58

33 your complete uniform and ensure you have any and all materials needed neatly ready to present to the committee. You should be taking some before pictures along the way, so put them in your notebook to show them what your project looks like prior to starting work. Once the committee discusses and approves your project obtain a signature from the Unit Committee Chairperson. Council Once you have the above signature then go to the council website at and call the Council to make arrangements to deliver your Eagle Scout Service Project Proposal Workbook to the Scout Service Center. This is the final step in your approval process. The Shenandoah Area Council Eagle Scout Project Review Board will review your project proposal to and gain their approval and signature. This board meets once a month or on an as needed basis. You or your Unit Leader will be contacted by the Council Registrar on the status of your project and when you may pick it up from the Council Scout Service Center. Attention: Unit, District, and Council Reviewers Eagle Scout projects must be evaluated primarily on impact: the extent of benefit to the religious institution, school, or community, and on the leadership provided by the candidate. There must also be evidence of planning and development. This is not only part of the requirement but relates to practicing the Scout motto, Be Prepared. However, in determining if a project meets Eagle Scout requirement 5, reviewers must not require more planning and development than necessary to execute the project. These elements must not overshadow the project itself, as long as the effort was well led and resulted in otherwise worthy results acceptable to the beneficiary. Project Proposal Evaluation Criteria For your proposal to be approved, it must show the following: 1. It provides sufficient opportunity to meet the Eagle Scout service project requirement. You must show that planning, development, and leadership will take place; and how the three factors will benefit a religious institution, a school, or your community. 2. It appears to be feasible. You must show the project is realistic for you to complete. 3. Safety issues will be addressed. You must show you have an understanding of what must be done to guard against injury, and what will be done if someone does get hurt. Page 33 of 58

34 4. You are on the right track with a reasonable chance for a positive experience. Action steps for further detailed planning are included. You must make a list of the key steps you will take to make sure your plan has enough details to be carried out successfully. Eagle Scout projects are evaluated primarily on impact: the extent of benefit to the religious institution, school, or community, and on the leadership provided by the candidate. There must also be evidence of planning and development. This is not only part of the requirement but relates to practicing the Scout motto, Be Prepared. However, in determining if a project meets Eagle Scout requirement 5, reviewers must not require more planning and development than necessary to execute the project. These elements must not overshadow the project itself, as long as the effort was well led and resulted in otherwise worthy results acceptable to the beneficiary. Final approval of your project proposal is entirely up to the Council Eagle Scout Service Project Committee. They are looking for a project that will allow you to demonstrate your leadership skills to the best of your abilities. Eagle Projects PROPOSALS are to be turned in by the Friday prior to the Eagle Board of Review (3rd Tuesday of the Month) so they can be reviewed. The Scout does not need to be present for this process. Note - No work can be started on the project before the Council approval. Prepare Project Final Plan (Final Plan Pages A through E) The second part of the project is creating a Final Plan. This is where you move from approvals to making sure that the project comes off as successful. This is a 5 page part of the workbook that covers the following sections. Comments from Project Proposal Review Changes to Project Description and Benefit Present Condition or Situation Project Phases Work Processes Permits and Permissions Materials Supplies Tools Expenses and Revenue Page 34 of 58

35 Leadership Logistics Safety Contingency Plans Most of sections in this part of your workbook are self-explanatory. Listed below are some special assistance to help you determine how to fill in the form. Eagle Scout Service Project Final Plan Cover Enter in your name plus your project start date which is the earliest date of your project proposal approvals. Your projected completion date is the date you anticipate will be the last date you will be using volunteers to carry out your project. Complete the Eagle Scout Service Project Final Plan after your proposal has been approved. This is a tool for your use no one approves it and it can be important in showing your Eagle Scout board of review that you have planned and developed your project as required. For this reason you are strongly encouraged to share the final plan with a project coach. The project coach will be assigned to you by your troop advancement committee chair. A coach can help you avoid many problems associated with service projects, and thus improve your chance of passing the Eagle board of review. If materials, etc., were not needed, mark those spaces not applicable. Comments From Your Proposal Review You can enter the suggestions that you received during the various review stages and how you plan to adjust your project. Comments may be this is a great project and no proposal changes are necessary or looking forward to seeing the finished project or we think you may need more material or do you have enough funding to complete the project as proposed? Page 35 of 58

36 Project Description and Benefit Changes from the Proposal Based upon the comments from your proposal review board you may have to make some changes. Changes may be major or may be minor. Be sure to check with the Beneficiary to make sure they are OK with the changes. A good source of help at this point is your Eagle Coach. Stay connected with your Eagle Coach and they will be a wealth of information and help. Remember, any comments made are constructive in nature and attempting to assist you in completing the best Eagle Scout service project you can. Present Conditions or Situation Describe what the existing situation is in the area where you will be doing your project. If your project involves building something, explain what the current condition of the building site is. Describe the current situation within the benefiting organization that your project will change. This section should help the Council/District Eagle Scout Committees understands why the project is needed and what the circumstances are prior to beginning the project. What is wrong and how are you going to fix or improve. Describe the method you will use to complete the project; this is where you tell how you will complete your project. Several things should be included to describe the method you will use to complete your project: Plans and/or Drawings: If your project involves building something, you should have complete plans for what you are going to build. This includes drawings such as a floor plan or map of the site where the construction will take place, as well as plans for the items built. The plans must include complete, accurate dimensions of what you will be building. Floor plans and maps must indicate exactly how the elements of the project will be situated, with as precise measurements as possible. Remember to take lots of pictures as you progress through the project steps. Project Phases Make a list of the key elements or steps in your project. Here are some of the phases from a successful Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook: Planning Develop and review the site project plan Schedule Develop and publish a time-line and proposed plan schedule Page 36 of 58

37 Labor Estimate how many and the source of workers required Communications Make a Point of Contact list of people and organizations phone numbers Material Contact those sources of material to arrange for types, quantity and delivery Financial Maintain an accurate list of materials/costs that will be donated or need purchased Historic Preservation- Maintain an accurate record of costs and labor hours. Take pictures! Excavation Coordinate the leveling of the project site. Spread fill dirt as required per surveys Foundation Trench &lay foundation material Water Trench & lay irrigation tubing from water source to center of demo area Ground Work Lay landscaping fabric over the demo area Framing Using concrete block, frame the plot area per drawings Mulching Spread a 4 inch deep layer of mulch within the 60 ft X 40 ft demo area Electrical Run conduit/low voltage electrical wire around perimeter of demo area Public Relations Alert news media about the project for special interest story Recognition Write and send out thank you letters to those who contributed to the project Review Review and make adjustments as necessary to complete the project Final Inspection Conduct a walk-thru inspection of the completed project with Eagle Coach, Beneficiary and Scoutmaster Note: Use your imagination as to what phases you will need to focus on from start to finish. Work Processes How will you organize your team members to do the work of the project? Will they be organized into teams? Will you assign jobs to individuals? Remember, you are the leader of the project, and it is up to you to decide how the team members are directed to accomplish the work. It is okay for you to demonstrate what you need your team members to do, but the bulk of the work should be done by them, under your direction. Giving Leadership You are required to give leadership to at least two individuals. You are not required to list individuals by name, but you must have an idea of how many team members you will need for the project and where you will recruit them. Creating a team list or a roster of tasks and responsibilities will assist you in the project. The most common source of team members is your Page 37 of 58

38 own troop, crew or team. You may be able to recruit school friends or people you know from other organizations to which you belong, or the organization that you are providing service to. Adults may be part of your team as team members or for safety issues, but their work should be minimal. Your project plan must demonstrate that you understand the requirements for adult participation. You should discuss what adults will be present and what their roles in the project will be. Adults should not be a major part of your work force. Carrying Out the Project: You are finally done with the major approval paperwork and can begin the process of actually doing your project. At this point you must have all approval signatures. Now there are some key things to remember: Time Make sure you have enough time to complete your project well before your 18th birthday. Scheduling Make sure you plan ahead in advance for each work party getting the word out well in advance and provide details. Scouts always need service hours. Budget Make sure you pay close attention to how much money you have, and how much you are spending. Look for donations, discount price donations, and sales to maximize your spending capacity. If you end up with unused donations at project completion, they must be returned to the donator per BSA National requirements. Materials Ensure you have the right materials, enough of the materials, and a little extra on site so if you finish early, you can begin on the next work party s tasks. There is nothing wrong with being ahead of schedule. Recruiting Volunteers Volunteers are the lifeblood to a successful project. It may be difficult to operate without supplies, but it is impossible to operate without extra help. This is your project; you are here to delegate and to lead those whom are helping you with your project. Remember the whole point of this project is to help the community and demonstrate leadership. It may sound cliché but lead them gently but firmly. Then again, the best leadership style is typically, led by example. Don t ask someone to do something you wouldn t do. Once you have covered the basics of the projects, shift your focus to the work force. First you need to make sure you have a work force before you can start managing them. Think about the various aspects of gaining volunteers: Page 38 of 58

39 1. How will people know about your project? Get the word out. These days texting and Facebook are more popular among scouts than or announcements and are a great resource to inform and remind volunteers. Create an event and invite people to join, or follow up with text reminders. But don t forget asking individuals in-person is the only surefire way to get a volunteer. 2. Follow this up by subsequent notifications to the troop informing the parents all about your project. Make it as easy as possible for volunteers to come and help, soon enough you will have more than you know what to do with. 3. You might invite the District Eagle Scout Committee Chair or other council/district representatives to attend a work day. 4. Why will they want to come and help? Tell them what they can gain from helping you. Also, tell them how their work will benefit the project recipient. 5. Where is it? Directions are nice. 6. When will it be? Give people at least a week s warning, with several work parties listed so they can choose and don t feel obligated to one specific work party. You may be competing for volunteers over other Eagle Projects, however try to schedule around this conflict. Another benefit of planning ahead and making the schedule known. 7. What kind of tools will they need to bring if any? Do you need a specific talent from within the troop for a specific task? Feel free to blanket the troop asking adults for their help in certain fields. Good changes are if they ve made a profession or hobby out of it, they d be happy to help. 8. If the project is outdoors, what is the bad weather plan and how will you get the word out if a work day plan needs changed. Motivating Your Team A happy work force is an effective work force. If you can keep your volunteers busy, engaged, and having fun, not only will they work but also come back. Consider this when coordinating volunteers and delegating tasks: 1. Let friends work with friends in small groups. They will talk, have fun, but not to the point where they get distracted. If they do feel free to move them around the site a little. Or assign them to tasks which repeatedly take them back and forth across the site, allowing them to talk but not too much. 2. Use your senior patrol leader or patrol leaders to help supervise groups. 3. Rotate tasks, even if muscles don t get sore, minds can. Some tasks can get boring fast. By rotating tasks people feel more effective and are also more attentive in their work. Page 39 of 58

40 4. Lead, don t dictate. You job is to set an example, and to guide people so their work is constructive, not chaos. Overexerting your authority will only discourage them from working, or keep them from coming back 5. If you are working during specific times in the day, look into, or either plan on having a lunch or snack time for people to rest and eat/drink something. The promise of food alone will often lure in many young scouts which will undoubtedly be the majority of your volunteers. 6. Keep morale high. As a leader you are not there just to coordinate but to encourage and motivate people. If you keep the environment comfortable and fun things go much more smoothly, which mean less headaches for you. 7. Support other Eagle projects. Remember, what goes around, comes around. If you are seen helping other projects, there will be much more interest in helping yours. 8. Lastly, pitch in. Don t be afraid to get your hands dirty. You can lead just as effectively from the bottom of a hole as you can look in from the top. Keep an eye on everything by glancing around once in a while, and checking in with groups randomly. If you see someone having trouble delegate what you were doing to someone else and lend a helping hand where it is needed most. Younger scouts often love working with an older scout and will often make them work faster and harder. By simply consciously rotating yourself around the site, you can make it much more productive. Track Your Hours Record the amount of time spent on the project by you and your project team members. As you begin to develop your project, you should keep a record or journal of everything that happens and record the time you spend on any activity related to your project. When you have completed your project, you will need to include the hours you spent on the project. On page 20 you report the people and total hours spent by you, other youth, BSA registered adults, and other adults. Make sure your records reflect those categories. The use of a check in sheet will help you track who actually is there. Make sure you include all the hours you spent planning your project. Some of the time spent on planning your project may include the following: Travel time to and from the project site Ordering, pick-up and delivery of materials Telephone conversations, e mails, text messages Page 40 of 58

41 Time of people who prepare & serve lunches & snacks include time to shop for food Fund raising efforts for materials Obtaining permits Time spent presenting your project to your unit committee if this is your unit s procedure Obtaining approvals from your Scoutmaster, unit committee and district committee Document the Process Either delegates the documentation of your project to a parent (they love taking pictures anyhow) or other scout/adult. You will want to have an ongoing picture record of the changes you make and the steps you finished. Pictures are worth a thousand words or more, which means less writing for you later on. Make sure you include a narrative or captions on the pictures you use as it helps the reviewers understand exactly what is happening. Write up Project Report Complete this portion after the project has been finished. This is your final report. Note the space for you to sign (confirming that you led and completed the project), and also the signature lines for the beneficiary and your unit leader s approval that your project met Eagle Scout requirement 5. As with the proposal and final plan, if materials, etc., were not required, mark those spaces not applicable. The Project Report contains the following sections. Summary What went well and challenging Changes What changed from your plan Leadership how did you demonstrate leadership Materials, Supplies, Tools What changed from what you planned for Hours How many people and hours were investing in the project Funding How much money did the project cost and where did the funds come from Photos Show the before, during and After photos Approvals Beneficiary Organization Representative and Scoutmaster The Eagle board of review must review and approve your completed project based on your approved project proposal. If you do a good job of reporting in your workbook, it will be easier Page 41 of 58

42 for board members to understand what happened during your project and you will spend less time answering questions about information you may have left out. The completed workbook is reviewed during your Eagle Scout board of review. The Application Submittal Process Once your final service project report has received completion approval from the beneficiary representative and the scoutmaster, you can now move into the application submission part of your Eagle Scout rank. Write a Statement of Your Ambitions and Life Purpose In requirement #7 of the Eagle Scout application it asks you In preparation for your board of review, prepare and attach to your Eagle Scout Rank Application a statement of your ambitions and life purpose and a listing of positions held in your religious institution, school, camp, community, or other organizations, during which you demonstrated leadership skills. Include honors and awards received during this service." Of all the Eagle requirements, this should probably be the least stressful. It's a chance for you to reflect on your accomplishments and introduce yourself to the Eagle Board of Review. Don't over think this. It is basically a cover letter and informs the Board who you are more than what is on the application. Some questions to help you write your statement: 1. What are your ambitions through high school and beyond? 2. Will you attend college? 3. What career do you hope to pursue? 4. What talents will you develop? 5. Do you plan to start a family, open a business or give back to your community? 6. Be specific. Think big. How do you want to change the world? 7. What positions have you held at any organization? List positions in which you demonstrated leadership skills. Include roles such as camp counselor, student-body officer, community volunteer, and mentor or project leader. 8. What honors or awards have your received? There is no minimum length. Most scouts make it a page or two. This should be in essay form, typed and organized into paragraphs. You should sign the document at the bottom. Focus on one main idea per paragraph. For example, discuss goals for personal development in one paragraph, career goals in the next. Include stories or personal experiences that have shaped Page 42 of 58

43 your character and ambitions, but keep them brief and relevant. Don't worry about being modest. This is your chance to shine. Read more: How to Write an Eagle Scout Personal Statement ehow.com Sign Your Eagle Scout Application You now can sign your application, add your telephone number (if anyone has questions), and date your application. Requirement 6 Take Part in a Scoutmaster Conference BSA Requirement: Take part in a unit leader conference. Attach to this application a statement of your ambitions and life purpose and a listing of positions held in your religious institution, school, camp, community, or other organizations during which you demonstrated leadership skills. Include honors and awards received during this service." The Scoutmaster conference for the Eagle rank is similar to the ones you had for other ranks. However, in addition to discussing personal advancement, there is discussion of ways you can help your unit and the Boy Scouts of America and what your Scouting goals are after achieving the rank of Eagle. The Scoutmaster will also review your ambitions and life purpose document. Page 43 of 58

44 It is a good idea to review your workbook with your Scoutmaster prior to going to your board of review. Make sure your Scoutmaster also signed the Unit Approval Unit Leader section on the application. This is the final step that must be done before your 18 th birthday. See other details in the Age Requirements section. Common Problems with Final Application Some of the problems other scouts have had with their application are the following. 1. References: Must list all six (five if not employed). If not affiliated with an organized religion, then the parent or guardian provides this reference. 2. Missing Dates either on the form or in the BSA Scouting Database: a. Project Date b. Scoutmaster s Conference Date c. Eagle Board of Review Date d. Merit Badge Dates - check the unit number in which each badge was earned. Attach the Application for Alternate Eagle Scout Rank Merit Badges, if applicable. e. Joined Scouting, f. Birthdate g. First Class through Life Boards of Reviews Dates h. Positions of responsibility with FROM and TO, i. Eagle service project final signature date, j. Eagle board of review 3. Project Name and grand total of hours under requirement 5 4. Signatures: a. Scout Applicant Signature b. Scoutmaster Signature (unit leader) c. Troop Committee Chairman Signature (unit committee chair) d. Board of Review Signature Page 44 of 58

45 5. Position of responsibility: Must be one of those listed for Eagle Scout rank. 6. Missing Statement of Ambitions and Life Purpose 7. Less than 4 months between 1 st Class and Star 8. Less than 6 months between Star and Life 9. Less than 6 months in position of responsibility since Life Board of Review date 10. Missing Merit Badges for Star, Life or Eagle ranks If your application does not pass the Council/District review they will contact you and copy the Scoutmaster with the above form informing you what needs to get resolved. Get Signature of Troop Committee Chair The last step before you submit your application to the council is to meet with your troop committee and have them review your application to make sure everything looks fine. Once your troop committee chair has signed your application it is ready to be sent to the council. Submit Application to the Shenandoah Area Council Service Center Eagle Projects FINALS need to be in the office by the first of the month to be seen by the Eagle Board of Review (on the 3rd Tuesday of said month) or as arranged between the Scout, the unit leader (s) and the District Eagle Scout Coordinator. You will need to turn-in the following after you have final approval from your troop committee chair. 1. Your original Eagle Scout Rank Application 2. Your original and signed Final Eagle Scout Workbook 3. Your Ambitions and Life Purpose Statement Page 45 of 58

46 Note the Council Registrar will attach the reference letters in a sealed envelope. We recommend you or someone from your unit hand carry them to the Service Center located at: Shenandoah Area Council 107 Youth Development Center Winchester, VA (540) The Council will date stamp receipt of your application. Make sure you have a copy for your records. The Council Registrar will make sure all documents are complete and transfer them to the District Eagle Scout Committee Chair. Page 46 of 58

47 What Happened to My Eagle Application? Complete Application with Requirement #6 Make a copy - Take original to Council Office Council verifies EVERYTHING - Sends to Council Eagle Scout Committee Chair Council Eagle Scout Committee Chair matches Application & Req. #6 with If Insufficient Letters, Application is held for a short time scout may be contacted If Sufficient Letters Packet sent out to 1 of 7 Eagle BOR Chairs If Requirement #6 is missing, Application is held and scout is contacted Getting to this point may take 3-4 weeks District Eagle Scout Committee Chair contacts Eagle Candidate to Schedule Board Packet includes: Eagle Application Requirement #6 Letters of Reference Eagle Candidate returns only the Application to Council Office They send to BSA HQ Candidate receives letter from BSA HQ officially now an Eagle Page 47 of 58 District Contact Info:

48 Council Review of Application The Shenandoah Area Council Registrar will verify all data according to the records on file in the National BSA database. If any dates or other information is missing or incorrect per advancement records on file in the National BSA database, a copy of the application is returned to the Scoutmaster with explanation. Corrections must be made on an official signed Advancement Report and returned to the Council Service Center as soon as possible. Do NOT submit corrections directly on the Eagle Rank Application. This process will continue until the Registrar is able to certify that the application is in agreement with the records on file and that the dates, tenures and so forth qualify the Scout to request a district board of review. This process assures the district that all the records are in order and that no problems exist before holding the board of review. The length of time it takes for review by the council office will vary, depending upon the number of applications received. Generally, this takes 48 hours for the certification to be completed. Once certified, the original application is forwarded to your District Eagle Scout Coordinator by the Registrar signifying that your records are certified and the board of review can proceed. A copy of the certified application is also returned to your Scoutmaster by the council. The council will also send a letter to the scout informing them that the application has been sent to the district. District Scheduling of Board of Review Once the district receives the certified application, the Eagle Scout Committee Chair will verify that they have received a reasonable number of reference letters or enough time has passed. Scouts are not responsible for follow-through or any other aspect of the reference letter process. It is up to the district to make every effort to collect the responses. If after a reasonable effort no response can be obtained from any references, the board of review must go on without them. It may not be postponed or denied for this reason, and the Scout may not be asked to submit additional references or to provide replacements. Completed reference responses of any kind are the property of the council and are confidential, and only review-board members and those officials with a specific need may see them. The responses are not to be viewed by, or returned to, the Scout. Doing so could discourage the submission of negative information. For Page 48 of 58

49 the same reason, those providing references shall not be given the option of waiving confidentiality. Once a review has been held, or an appeal process conducted, responses shall be returned to the council, where they will be destroyed after the Eagle Scout credentials are released or the appeal is concluded. Guide to Advancement Once the District Eagle Scout Committee Chair has concluded the review, he/she will either contact the Scoutmaster, Troop Committee Chair, Troop Advancement Coordinator, or the Troop Eagle Scout Coordinator they have on record and provide them with possible date(s) for the Eagle Board of Review. Normally, Eagle Board of Reviews are normally scheduled for the 3rd Tuesday each month or as required. BOR members are asked to arrive at the BOR location by 6:30 p.m. and the Eagle Candidate should arrive by 6:45 p.m. They may also contact the scout directly. The troop will also be asked to provide 2 adults to sit on the Board of Review and a meeting location. Individuals from the local community may be asked to sit as members of the BOR as well. The location of the board of review may vary as to availability of appropriate locations. The BOR could also be held on the same night the unit meets and at their location. Or, the BOR could meet at the Scouts Eagle Scout Service Project location. The time and location will be coordinated between the District Eagle Scout Committee Chair, the unit leader and/or Scout. Every effort will be made to expedite the process, but it can take several weeks (2-6 weeks) from when you turn in your application until when your board of review gets scheduled. Once the troop received the call to schedule the BOR, it usually happens within a week or two. Every effort will be made to accommodate the Eagle Scout Candidate. Requirement 7 Successfully Complete a Board of Review BSA Requirement: Successfully complete an Eagle Scout board of review. The applicant appeared before the Eagle Scout board of review on this date, and this application was approved. Page 49 of 58

50 Purpose of the Board of Review The purpose of the board of review is to verify you have successfully completed the requirements for the rank of Eagle Scout. It is an opportunity for you to talk about what you have accomplished and what you learned in Scouting. It should be a pleasant experience for you, as well as for the members of the board. The review is not an examination; the board does not retest the candidate. Rather, the board attempts to determine your attitude and your acceptance of Scouting s ideals and spirit of Scouting. The board will make sure these standards have been met in all phases of your life. A discussion of the Scout Oath and Scout Law is in keeping with the purpose of the review, to make sure that you recognize and understand the value of Scouting in your home, unit, religious belief, school and community. They will review the completed Eagle service project workbook to ensure it was successfully completed as originally approved. They will ask you to describe how you fulfilled the leadership requirement. Preparing for Your Board of Review Before coming to your Eagle Scout board of review, remember the Scout Motto "Be Prepared." No two boards are exactly alike, so it is impossible to anticipate the exact questions asked. However, you must be able to recite and explain in your own words the meaning of the Scout Oath and Scout Law. You must be able to explain how you have applied them to everything you do in your daily life. If you spend some time thinking about your Scouting experiences, including your advancements, outdoor activities, ways you demonstrated leadership, patrol and troop positions you held and what you accomplished, your service to the community, religious activities, and anything else you have learned, you should be able to answer any question that you will be asked. You should review your completed project workbook carefully. You should be familiar with every aspect of your project and be prepared to answer questions about it. The board wants to hear about you and your Scouting career. They are not there to ask you questions that will put you on the spot or trick you. What to Bring & What to Wear Page 50 of 58

51 The Eagle Scout Committee Chair or designee will have your original Eagle Scout Rank Application, letters of recommendation, your Eagle service project workbook and your Life Goals and Ambitions. It is recommended you bring your Scout handbook so that it can be ceremonially signed (not required but fun to have it fully signed off). Verify your uniform is correctly put together. You should be dressed in your full and proper uniform. Make sure you have your Life Rank badge on. Your uniform should include all the appropriate badges sewn on properly. You should wear your merit badge sash. Verify that all your merit badges are sewed on correctly. Make sure you have any current positions of responsibility badges on. Review the Official BSA insignia guide to make sure you are ok. Review what merit badges you have earned, be able to discuss some of your favorites or those that weren t that enjoyable and be able to identify them along with the meaning of different parts of your uniform. Your parents are welcome and encouraged to come to the BOR meeting location and can wait outside the BOR meeting room if they wish; however you will meet with the BOR by yourself along with your Scoutmaster. The Review and Sample Questions The District Eagle Scout Committee Chair or BOR Representative will be leading your Eagle Board of Review. It is likely they will excuse you from the room for a while as they read your letters of recommendation, application, life goals and ambitions, service project workbook, and discuss the review process. Remember you have done all the hard work, you have nothing to prove, you simply need to let your work, achievements, and character speak for themselves. It is an opportunity for them to get to know you, and you to explain who you really are. It is no more nerve-racking or complicated than that. Simply answer every question thoughtfully and honestly, and you will do fine. The approximate time for this Board of review should be minutes. Generally the review will be in three parts. Part 1 will be about the scout oath and law and what it means to you, part 2 will be about your scouting experience and how you have grown, and part 3 will be a discussion of your eagle service project. Page 51 of 58

52 Sample Questions: (not all inclusive and BOR members may have other questions of their own) 1. What would you suggest adding to the Scout Law (a thirteenth point)? Why? 2. What one point could be removed from the Scout Law? Why? 3. What Scout Law is the hardest to keep? 4. Why is it important to learn how to tie knots, and lash together poles and logs? 5. What is the difference between a "Hollywood hero" and a real hero? 6. Can you give me an example of someone who is a hero to you? (A real person, not a character in a book or movie.) 7. Why do you think that the Family Life merit badge is on the list of required merit badges? 8. What camping experience have you had, that you wish every Scout could have? 9. Have you been to Philmont or a National (International) Jamboree? What was your most memorable experience there? 10. What is the role of the Senior Patrol Leader at a troop meeting (campout, summer camp)? 11. If you could change one thing to improve Scouting, what would you change? 12. What do you believe our society expects from an Eagle Scout? 13. The charge to the Eagle requires that you give back to scouting more than Scouting has given to you. How do you propose to do that? 14. As an Eagle Scout, what can you personally do to improve your unit? 15. What will you be doing in your unit, after receiving your Eagle Rank? 16. Tell us how you selected your Eagle Service Project. 17. From your Eagle Service Project, what did you learn about managing or leading people? 18. What are the qualities of a good leader? 19. What part of your Eagle Service Project was the most challenging? Why? 20. If you were to manage another project similar to your Eagle Service Project, what would you do differently to make the project better or easier? 21. What are your future plans (high school, college, trade school, military, career, etc.)? 22. Tell us about your family (parents, siblings, etc.). How do you help out at home? 23. What do you think is the single biggest issue facing scouting in the future? 24. How do your friends outside of Scouting react when they learn that you are a Boy Scout? How do you think they will react when they learn that you have become an Eagle Scout? 25. Why do you think that belief in God (a supreme being) is part of the Scouting requirements? 26. You have been in Scouting for many years; sum up all of those experiences in one word. Why? 27. What one thing have you gained from your Scoutmaster's conferences over the years? 28. How does an Eagle Scout continue to show Scout Spirit? 29. If the Scout is a member of the Order of the Arrow: Page 52 of 58

53 What does OA membership mean to you? How does OA help Scouting and your unit? 30. [Traditional last questions] Do you deserve being an Eagle Scout? Why should this Board of Review approve your request for the Eagle Rank? Or why should you be an Eagle Scout? Board of Reviews Decision Just like all other board of reviews, the Scout is excused from the room. The board members then consider whether the Scout is ready. The board's decision must be unanimous. Once the decision is made, the Scout is invited back into the room, and the Eagle Scout Committee Chair or BOR Representative informs the Scout of the board's decision. Your Scoutmaster and parents are invited back in to the room as well. If the Scout is approved, there are general congratulations and handshakes all around. If you optionally decided to bring your Scout Handbook then this is the time to ask that it be signed. Rarely there are issues which prevent the Scout from being approved. If there are, the board must detail the precise nature of the deficiencies. The Scout will also be told about the appeal process (see next section) and what they should do next. The Eagle Scout Committee Chair or BOR Representative must send a written follow-up, to both the Scout and the Scoutmaster, regarding the deficiencies and the next course of action with a copy to the Shenandoah Area Council Advancement Committee Chair. Appealing a Decision The decision of the Eagle Scout board of review must be unanimous for advancement. If you do not meet the requirements, you are told the reasons for your failure to qualify. A discussion is held with you as to how you may meet the requirements within a given period. Your Scoutmaster may be part of the discussion. A follow up letter will be sent to you confirming the agreements reached on the action(s) necessary for your advancement. Page 53 of 58

54 Should you disagree with the decision, the appeal procedure is as follows. The Scout, his parent(s) or guardian(s), may appeal the decision to the next level. If a Scout chooses to appeal, the board will provide the name and address of the Shenandoah Area Council Advancement Committee chair. All requests for appeal must be made in writing to the Council Advancement Committee chair, signed by the Scout and/or his parent(s) or guardian(s), and shall set forth in detail the reasons for the requesting an appeal. All documents presented during the board will be retained by the district board chair and submitted to the council Advancement Committee chair. The Shenandoah Area Council Advancement Committee Chair will schedule a board of review. All parties will be interviewed or written statements will be obtained. A written report setting out all details of the appeal and the reasons for the committee s decision shall be prepared and forwarded to the Council Scout Executive. A copy shall be furnished to the Scout bringing the appeal. If the council board of review does not find in favor of the Scout, he or his parent(s) or guardian(s), may appeal the decision to the national Youth Development Committee. A decision at either level finding in favor of the Scout shall be final. Scoutmasters have no right of appeal of a decision. All decisions of the national Advancement Committee in reference to appeals shall be final. After the Board of Review When the board of review has voted unanimously to approve your application for Eagle rank, the board members sign the application and your scout handbook and the project workbook is returned to you. Per BSA policy, the letters of recommendation are never shown to the Scout or anyone outside the board of review and destroyed by the Shenandoah Area Council Registrar after the board of review. It is the District Eagle Scout Committee Chair s responsibility to take the signed application back to the Council Service Center for it to be processed. Council Certification of the Board of Review Page 54 of 58

55 When the approved and signed application is returned to the Council Service Center, the Scout Executive signs the application to certify that the proper procedure was followed and that the board of review has recommended the candidate for the Eagle Scout rank. The application is forwarded to the national BSA Advancement office in Texas. They verify the information, record the accomplishment, and prepare a certificate. Obtaining the Eagle Scout Award The National BSA Advancement Office records the award and returns an official Eagle Scout certificate to the Council Service Center, which then notifies by the Scoutmaster. It is the responsibility of the Scoutmaster or unit leadership to pick-up the certificate from the Council Service Center or arrange to have it mailed. The Troop or family is responsible for Page 55 of 58

56 purchasing the Eagle Scout Award Kit from the Scout Shop, which contains the cloth emblem, medal, a mother and father pin and a mentor pin. The Eagle Court of Honor An Eagle Court of Honor should be a special occasion. You and your family will remember it for the rest of your lives. The Eagle Court of Honor should be held separately from a unit Court of Honor. Make it a ceremony worthy of the young man who has achieved Scouting's highest award. A full discussion of the Eagle Court of Honor is beyond the scope of this document. There are many resources available to help you plan your Eagle Court of Honor. Many websites have information, including sample ceremonies Congratulatory Letters Page 56 of 58

57 It is a great honor to not only receive the Eagle Rank but also to be recognized for this great accomplishment. One way to do this is through Congratulatory letters. It is recommended to start early in solicit letters as the turn-around time can be long. Some examples of whom you might want to ask are: City and county officials: Your mayor, city council officials, school board president, superintendent, parks and recreation director Religious leaders State officials: The governor, your area s state legislators Business leaders: CEOs and executives at major corporations based in your city U.S. officials: The president, cabinet members, senators, representatives, military leaders, department heads Past presidents or elected officials no longer in office Prominent national people: astronauts, athletes, filmmakers, actors, and famous Eagle Scouts like Mike Rowe or Steven Spielberg Anyone who means something to your Eagle Scout: Get creative! Does he have a favorite author, athlete, musician, or actor? Try to track down that person s contact information. Some resources for more information are: National Eagle Scout Association The National Eagle Scout Association is a useful one which could prove very beneficial to your future aspirations and goals. Details can be found at Page 57 of 58

58 Other References: Page 58 of 58