As Scouting America marks its 115th anniversary, President and CEO Roger Krone emphasizes inclusivity amid a rebrand which has caused mixed reactions. Membership has seen a slight increase since last year, reflecting a desire for inclusivity after a dip during the pandemic. The organization allowed girls to join in 2018, leading to notable female participation. Celebrations will include iconic sites illuminated in red, white and blue, coinciding with the official name change and repositioning efforts as the organization seeks to move beyond its past challenges.
The group will continue leaning into a broad message of inclusivity as it celebrates its 115th birthday Saturday, President and CEO Roger Krone said.
Although the overall gain in membership was small - about 16,000 new scouts, up less than 2% from the prior year - it is still encouraging for the organization after participation plummeted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Krone said Cub Scouts, the youngest scouting level, saw an increase of almost 3%. Although the majority of scouts are still boys, over 196,000 girls participated in Scouting America's programs last year.
The name change will officially take effect during the weekend birthday celebration, when sites across the U.S. will be illuminated in red, white and blue.
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