Building Leaders Through Advancement

The BSA prepares young people for leadership by giving them the skills to take responsibility and teach by example. For example, Eagle Scout is the highest attainable rank in Boy Scouting, and Scouts must demonstrate proficiency in leadership, service, and outdoor skills at multiple levels before achieving the Eagle rank.

In 2014, 51,820 Scouts earned the rank of Eagle Scout. In addition to the 21 life skills merit badges required to earn the Eagle Scout rank, each Scout must complete an extensive service project that he plans, organizes, leads, and manages before his 18th birthday. In 2014, Eagle Scout projects provided more than $183 million in service to communities across the nation. (Three Eagles, in particular, were honored for their inspiring projects and service to their communities. Learn more about them at nesa.org.)