BSA at a Glance

The purpose of the Boy Scouts of America is to provide an educational program for boys and young adults to build character, to train in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and to develop personal fitness.

What is Cub Scouting?

Cub Scouting is a year-round family program designed for boys who are in the first grade through fifth grade (or 7, 8, 9, and 10 years of age).

What is Boy Scouting?

Boy Scouting is available to boys who are 11 through 17 years old. The program achieves the BSA's objectives of developing character, citizenship, and personal fitness.

What Is Venturing?

Venturing is a youth development program of the Boy Scouts of America for young men and women who are 14 through 20 years of age.

These additional Fact Sheets, maintained by the External Communications Division, provide detailed and up-to-date information about every aspect of Scouting: our programs, awards, history, practices, and more.

Founders of Scouting and the BSA
Merit Badge Program
Scouts With Disabilities and Special Needs
Scouting Around the World
Who Pays for Scouting?
Community Organizations & the Boy Scouts of America
Order of the Arrow
What is the Lone Scout Plan?
Scouting for Catholic Youth
Scouting Serves the Jewish Community
Scouting in the Islamic Community
Scouting in the Buddhist Community
Scouting for Lutheran Youth
Scouting in Protestant Churches
Scouting in Churches of Christ
Scouting for Presbyterian Youth
Eagle Scouts
Lifesaving or Meritorious Action Awards
Distinguished Service Awards
Scouting and Conservation
Scouting: A Profession With A Mission
The Professional in Scouting
Space Exploration
William T. Hornaday Award for Distinguished Service in Conservation
National BSA Good Turns
The Congress and Scouting
Drugs: A Deadly Game
Order of the Arrow Scoutreach Mentoring Program
Varsity Scouting
Project COPE
Scouting and Climbing
National Scouting Museum
National Park Service
America's Promise
Boys' Life Magazine