Articles on Scouting with special needs and disabilities
So, you have adult Scouts 18 years old or older who are registered beyond the age of eligibility (RBAE). Their registrations are based on severely limited mental abilities. Their adult applications have been filled out and now they must take Youth Protection Training (YPT). “Really??” you ask. “No way!” Scouts who cognitively function below their... Continue Reading →
There have been national changes to the policy for everyone age 18 or older who participate as members of a Scouting or Venturing unit. All participants age 18 or older must fill out the adult application and agree to a criminal background check. They must also take Youth Protection Training unless they receive a special... Continue Reading →
A scoutmaster recently asked the National Special Needs and Disabilities Committee about training for “Bob,” an assistant scoutmaster with cognitive limitations. “Bob” assists with simple tasks during daytime events and camp activities, but does not participate in overnights. “Bob” has completed Youth Protection Training (YPT), but not Outdoor Leadership Skills (OLS), which traditionally involves an... Continue Reading →
The Torch of Gold Award is a council award recognizing adult volunteers for service to Scouting with special needs and abilities. Each council may present one Torch of Gold Award every year. Nomination: Publicize the award in council newsletters and online venues. Volunteers in the council’s special needs and disabilities programs should also nominate people... Continue Reading →
“Houston, Tranquility Base here. The Eagle has landed.” said Neil Armstrong as he landed on the moon, July 20, 1969. Tranquility Base, named by Armstrong, became a very famous area in the Sea of Tranquility during those exciting space travel years. You can just imagine it: how peaceful, quiet, and beautiful in its desolation. Fast... Continue Reading →
Doris (“Dori”) Sue Hammer of the Denver Area Council, Western Region, received the 2019 Woods Services Award at the BSA National Annual Meeting last May. As Assistant Council Commissioner since 2011, Dori has provided leadership to the Council Committee on Special Needs. Prior to that she served in several Commissioner and Unit positions providing opportunities... Continue Reading →
This site contains articles written for Abilities Digest, the quarterly publication of the National Special Needs and Disabilities Committee of the Boy Scouts of America.
This is the first issue of Abilities Digest for 2020: the "late winter" edition. Abilities Digest V7 n1Download Here is a summary of the contents: Adapting Activities: Tranquility Base: a safe space; Philmont’s Zia Experience for youth with special needs this summerEnhancing Awareness: Training conference at Philmont this summer.Adapting Advancement: Changes to youth registration beyond... Continue Reading →
Observations by Warren Wenner, CNP, Chair, National Special Needs and Disabilities Committee One of the most common questions the National Special Needs and Disabilities Committee receives from leaders and parents is where do I go for help with advancement for my Special Needs Scout. Well, the best answer may be right down the street at... Continue Reading →
Adapted from a report by Tony Mei, the Inclusion Advisor for Centro Mondial at the 2019 World Scout Jamboree. The 2019 World Scout Jamboree (WSJ) took place last summer at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia. It was the first World Jamboree to take place in North America since the 1983 Jamboree in Alberta,... Continue Reading →
