Grand Canyon Council Virtual Roundtable

The Congressional Award: An impressive honor Scouts can earn just by being Scouts

Going for Gold?
Scouts like to aim high, so I’m guessing that many will be eyeing that Gold Medal. Christian shared a few examples of how Scouts might meet or exceed Gold Medal requirements just by enjoying all that Scouting has to offer.

• 400 hours of voluntary service: Scouts spend a lot of time helping others and serving in leadership roles, and it’s surprising how quickly they accumulate more than 400 hours. Eagle Scout service projects could easily fulfill a large chunk of the 400 hours needed.
• 200 hours of personal development: Scouts could register these hours by learning new skills, such as those taught in merit badges. It takes time, but it’s fun to pursue a new passion.
• 200 hours of physical fitness: Working toward merit badges like Cycling, Swimming, Hiking, Backpacking and Athletics will give Scouts a good foundation for this requirement.
• Four nights and five days on an “expedition or exploration”: A single trip to many BSA high-adventure bases would qualify, and Philmont Scout Ranch is mentioned by name in the FAQs. The primary requirement is that participants “plan, prepare and be responsible.”
• 24 months of work toward the award: Scouts work for months toward lofty goals like the Eagle Scout Award, Quartermaster Award (Sea Scouts) or Summit Award (Venturing). All this time will count.