Dear Dan Beard Council Families, Scouting Leaders, Volunteers, Supporters and Friends, 

Recent news coverage of the Secretary of War’s announcement regarding a new memorandum of understanding with Scouting America has generated questions within the Scouting community. Some reports reference programmatic changes related to Executive Order 14173; however, early reporting has varied and not all information has been consistent. We understand that families and volunteers want clear, accurate information about what this means for their Scouts, and we are committed to providing that clarity.

First and foremost, please know that Dan Beard Scouting and Scouting America will continue to welcome and serve all youth. Our commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and character-building program for every young person remains steadfast.

What Has Not Changed

Scouting America’s name, mission, and commitment to the Scout Oath and Law remain firmly in place. Our purpose continues to be preparing young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling the values of character, leadership, and service.

We will continue to welcome and serve all youth who want to experience the growth, adventure, and leadership development that Scouting provides. Youth protection and safeguarding policies remain a top priority, ensuring that our programs are safe, structured, and supportive environments for every participant.

Our core focus is unchanged: developing leaders of character who are prepared to serve God, country, and community.

Here at the Dan Beard Council, our mission and delivery of Scouting across Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky remain steady. Families can expect the same high-quality programs, dedicated volunteers, and meaningful experiences that have defined Scouting in our region for generations.

What’s New at the National Level

There are also several new updates from Scouting America:

• Beginning June 1, 2026, registration fees will be waived for children of active-duty, Guard, and Reserve families. This reinforces Scouting’s longstanding commitment to supporting military families.

• A new elective Military Service merit badge will be introduced, offering Scouts the opportunity to learn more about military service and civic responsibility.

• The Citizenship in Society merit badge will be discontinued and will not be required for the Eagle Scout rank. Scouts who have already started the merit badge may complete it for credit through December 31, 2026.

Moving Forward Together

Scouting continues to provide stability, mentorship, adventure, and leadership opportunities for young people. As always, our focus remains on helping youth build confidence, resilience, and character that will serve them throughout their lives.

We are proud of the Scouts, families, and volunteers who make Scouting strong in our communities. Thank you for your continued support as we move forward together.

If you have any feedback you’d like to share, please submit HERE.

Scouting has always been local. Our parents, volunteers, charter partners, and community leaders set the tone for our programs, and that will not change. You shape the experience for the youth in your units every day. We are deeply grateful for your leadership and for the role you play in delivering Scouting to 11,000+ young people annually. 

Thank you for your steady leadership and continued commitment to the youth we serve. 

Yours in Scouting,

Andy Zahn, CEO & Scout Executive