Bringing innovation into recruitment
September 20, 2013
It’s vital to the sustainability of any organization to continually attract new members and fresh talent, and that’s why our fall Scouting recruitment is one of my favorite times of the year. While all groups and activities serving our young people have important roles, this is when we can use effective recruiting strategies to set ourselves apart as America’s largest and most comprehensive youth-serving organization.
There is a lot of energy crackling out there to encourage parents and boys alike to join our movement, while demonstrating the value we have in service to our communities. Here are some examples of the innovative ways our units and councils are inviting America’s youth to give Scouting a test drive:
- Indian Nations Council is offering a Scouting “test drive” of sorts through a “Try Scouting for a Day” at its 2013 Fall Festival in Broken Arrow, OK. This way, non-Scouters and their families can get acquainted with the programs like hiking and camping they can experience as a Scout.
- Similarly, in Tallahassee, FL, the Suwanee River Area Council is sponsoring its first “Scoutfest” – promising a “full Boy Scout experience” – with a mock campsite, Pinewood Derby car racing, rope bridge and outdoor cooking.
- Boy Scout Troop 47 in Port St. Joe, FL from the Gulf Coast Council is targeting home-schooled students as part of its fall recruitment strategy, offering Scouting as an elective, since it teaches a variety of valuable skills via completion of merit badges and also puts an emphasis on life and leadership skills.
- The Ozark Trails Council is encouraging new Scouts to enjoy the Missouri outdoors by offering free fishing rods, reels, tackle and ten Fishing Belt Loop events throughout the council.
It’s important to the sustainability of the Boy Scouts of America for us to provide a quality Scouting experience at all levels, and that’s why I’m excited to see that Councils across the country are focusing on innovative recruitment techniques to bring the fun, valuable lessons and fellowship that Scouting provides to a wider group of youth.
I’m interested in hearing from Scouters and non-Scouters alike: What innovative recruitment methods do you use to bring more people into your organizations – whether you are trying to attract folks who are young or old? I think we can all benefit from each other’s creative thinking, whether you are a large or small business, non-profit, or other group. Share your ideas here!
More soon!
Wayne
Nathan Johnson
As a member of the Communications team at Boy Scouts of America, Nathan Johnson enjoys finding and sharing the stories that inform, inspire, and delight the Scouting family.
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