Throughout my life, including my time in Scouting, the most meaningful and memorable experiences have usually come with a cost. Whether that ‘cost’ be in terms of effort, money, or time (often a mix of all three), the lasting impacts ought not be overlooked or taken lightly.
Like many of you, I am fortunate to have a partner who understands the value of these ‘costs’ and supports our efforts in the important work of making a difference in the lives of young people.
Recently, your Council Key 3 – Council Commissioner Scott Hooper, Scout Executive Jory Dellinger, and I – joined leaders from across the country in Orlando, Fla., for Scouting America’s National Annual Meeting. While Orlando may sound like a fun place to be in May, we mostly saw the inside of large (highly air-conditioned) conference rooms, listening to leaders in Scouting, and engaging in sessions regarding critical issues facing us today.
While we didn’t get to see Mickey Mouse or much sun, we did return with renewed energy, key insights, and a deep sense of urgency about what lies ahead for Scouting – and what it means for us here in Montana.
A Few Highlights
We were all welcomed by “Lincoln”, a Bald Eagle who soared around the conference room for several minutes, dodging light bars, backdrops, and ceiling fixtures – a fitting symbol of Scouting’s spirit.
National Chair Brad Tilden offered a clear-eyed view on where we are and where we must go, especially when it comes to growing membership. Our new National Commissioner, Devang Desai, poignantly reminded us that the Scout Oath & Law are the magic behind Scouting. He challenged each of us to lead with urgency because strong units are the heartbeat of Scouting.
Past National Commissioner Scott Sorrels noted that the future of Scouting is bright; young people want in-person connection, and we have an excellent program to help them do so in fun and meaningful ways.
Chief Scout Executive Roger Krone emphasized the “Power of One” – the effect and impact that one person can make. In reviewing 2024, Krone pledged improvements to our registration system, reaffirmed our commitment to youth safety, including zero tolerance for violations of Safeguarding Youth policies, and our commitment to serving more youth.
We previewed new innovations, including a virtual Aviation Merit Badge, and ‘Scoutly’, an AI-powered guide for merit badges. Having taught the Aviation Merit Badge several times, I was impressed! More virtual merit badge offerings are on their way, including Artificial Intelligence and Fingerprinting.
Speaker after speaker affirmed what I have long known to be truths: Scouting is a place where youth and adults find belonging, purpose, and lifelong friends. It builds character, teaches leadership, improves mental health, strengthens families, and creates better citizens. And if you make life better for just one child? You are a magnificent success!
Safety Is Paramount
As I have said repeatedly, and we heard again at the meeting, the safety of our youth is our top priority for each and every one of us.
A major step forward is the launch of Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT) – our modernized, comprehensive update to Youth Protection Training.
The initial SYT course is similar in length to the previous version, but the annual refresher takes only about 15 minutes plus a short quiz – an easy investment for protecting those we serve.
What We Learned – And What We Must Do
There was much to take in, but here are a few of the most important takeaways we brought home:
- Scouting is needed now more than ever. Today’s youth are searching for connection, growth, and purpose—and we have the tools to deliver.
- Reconnecting with Scouting alumni strengthens both the local council and our broader movement.
- Strong, trained volunteers are essential. Every successful unit starts with capable leaders.
- We need more units—and stronger ones. This has always been true, but it’s especially vital now.
- Families want fun, organized experiences. Kids crave time with their parents, doing something structured, meaningful, and engaging.
- Safety is paramount. Parents evaluate programs by how safe, well-run, and fun they appear. If they see chaos, disengagement, or unclear costs, they walk away.
- Be transparent and positive. Talk to parents about Fun, Friends, and Happiness – and then clearly explain costs. Surprises, not expenses, drive people away.
- Help new parents feel welcome. Explain your program and how it works. For example, packs and troops operations, and how they differ.
Looking Ahead
Scouting has evolved many times over the past 115 years – and it must continue to do so if we’re to stay relevant to today’s families. But at its core, the movement remains the same: people helping people, one act at a time.
We are One Movement, One Mission, and One Future.
And the Power of One is you having the ability to make a difference. It is also the volunteers in your unit and your district, the District Executives and staff, and it is me, and hundreds of others across the Montana Council as part of Team 315.
It’s all of us joining with councils across the country that together make Scouting America the place that today’s youth desperately need.
Together, with each of us giving what we can – of our time, our skills, our dollars – we create a world-changing impact. Right now, we stand at a fork in the trail and must decide which way to go.
It all depends on you.
Are you ready?
Walt McIntosh
Board Chairman, Montana Council
