The Boy Scout Eagle Project Info
9.0.1.2 Prepare the Eagle Scout Service Project WorkbookThe most current workbook must be used. It can be found at www.scouting.org/advancement. The workbook shows the project proposal was approved ahead of time, and then properly accepted by all parties when finished. Ideally, it will be a proud reminder of a significant accomplishment. See “Use the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook,” 9.0.2.8.
The Eagle Scout Project
Eagle Rank Requirements:
Let’s start by looking at your Scoutbook…..Eagle Requirement Number 5 says:
While a Life Scout, plan, develop, and give leadership to others in a service project helpful to any religious institution, any school, or your community. (The project must benefit an organization other than Boy Scouting.) A project proposal must be approved by the organization benefiting from the effort, your unit leader and unit committee, and the council or district before you start. You must use the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, BSA publication No. 512-927, in meeting this requirement.
Almost….You can start to think about your Project before you are Life and share your ideas and get input before you are Life, but you must be a Life Scout before you start the Planning and Approval Process required by the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook.
Yes, but a bit over simplified. By the time you’ve made Life, you fully understand the meaning of the Scout Oath and Law, have learned Leadership as you’ve progressed through the ranks and know the meaning and importance and honor of the Eagle Scout Rank. You should consider all of this, as you work to select a Project.
Fundraisers are not allowed and neither is regular maintenance, like pulling weeds or periodic painting. These are all good ideas to start with, but I’d really like you to give some thought as to whom your project will help and the impact it will have on the community. I like to see Scouts find Community Service Projects which help people and organizations with a real need (and in today’s connected society……”Community” is really the whole world). I also like to see Projects where the Scouts you are leading, learn from the experience, by being exposed to people and situations they would not come in contact with in their normal routine. Take your bench idea for example. Rather than build benches in our town park, find a school a few towns over, in an underserved community, where they could use the benches and a podium as an outdoor classroom. You could lead you’re workers (fellow Scouts, friends and family) to do the building at home in your garage, then deliver them and plan an activity at the school, and meet the children and teachers who will use the outdoor classroom. This is the kind of Project you can proudly discuss on a college interview, and shows you really understand and live by the Scout Oath and Law.
Your Project Proposal is reviewed by a number of people on the way to getting approval, and they all have expectations of what makes a good Eagle Project. There are no requirements for the size of an Eagle Project, the number of hours required to complete a project or the number of people (but at least you and two others) who work on the project. You are required to demonstrate your ability to plan, develop and provide leadership on the project you select. I’d like you to find a Project that will be a challenge to accomplish, one you will be proud to have completed. It must be your Project, and you must take the lead in doing the work. For starters you can talk to me as your Scoutmaster, and we can brainstorm for ideas. You may need to go talk to the organization you will do the project for, to make sure they like the idea, and see if they have any particular requirements. Next step is to select an Eagle Project Mentor which can be any of the dad’s in the Troop, who will help you complete the Eagle Service Project Workbook. Then you submit the Workbook to your Project Sponsor, Committee Chair and Scoutmaster for their review and approval. Then the completed Workbook is submitted to the District Advancement Committee for a final review and approval. Once you have the District okay, you can start work on your Project. I know this sounds a bit complicated, but your Eagle Project Coach will help you….and in some Troops there are additional resources, like an Eagle Project Review Committee, who review and comment on the Workbook before the Committee Chair and Scoutmaster sign.
Your Project should take a while to complete, maybe a few weekends over a month or longer. Your sponsor must sign off on your Workbook, indicating they accept your Project and it is completed. Remember, you must complete your Project, all your Merit Badges and Leadership Assignment before your 18th birthday, so timing is important. Once you have all the requirements done, you have one last Scoutmaster Conference, and then an Eagle Board of Review. A representative from the District will be present at your Board of Review, and the Board must be satisfied you completed all the Eagle Requirements (and accept your completed Project), before you are awarded Eagle.
Eagle Rank Requirements:
- Be active in your troop, team, crew, or ship for a period of at least six months after you have achieved the rank of Life Scout.
- Demonstrate that you live by the principles of the Scout Oath and Scout Law in your daily life. List on your Eagle Scout Rank Application the names of individuals who know you personally and would be willing to provide a recommendation on your behalf, including parents/guardians, religious, educational, and employer references.
- Earn a total of 21 merit badges (10 more than you already have), including the following:
- While a Life Scout, serve actively in your unit for a period of six months in one or more of the following positions of responsibility. List only those position served after your Life board of review date.
- Boy Scout troop. Patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader, senior patrol leader, Venture patrol leader, troop guide, Order of the Arrow troop representative, den chief, scribe, librarian, historian, quartermaster, junior assistant Scoutmaster, chaplain aide, instructor, webmaster, or Leave No Trace trainer.
- Varsity Scout team. Captain, cocaptain, program manager, squad leader, team secretary, Order of the Arrow team representative, librarian, historian, quartermaster, chaplain aide, instructor, den chief, webmaster, or Leave No Trace trainer.
- Venturing crew/ship. President, vice president, secretary, treasurer, quartermaster, historian, den chief, guide, boatswain, boatswain's mate, yeoman, purser, storekeeper, webmaster, or Leave No Trace trainer.
- While a Life Scout, plan, develop, and give leadership to others in a service project helpful to any religious institution, any school, or your community. (The project must benefit an organization other than Boy Scouting.) A project proposal must be approved by the organization benefiting from the effort, your unit leader and unit committee, and the council or district before you start. You must use the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, BSA publication No. 512-927, in meeting this requirement. (To learn more about the Eagle Scout service project, see the Guide to Advancement, topics 9.0.2.0 through 9.0.2.15.)
- Take part in a unit leader conference.
- Successfully complete an Eagle Scout board of review. In preparation for your board of review, prepare and attach to your Eagle Scout Rank Application a statement of your ambitions and life purpose and a listing of positions held in your religious institution, school, camp, community, or other organizations, during which you demonstrated leadership skills. Include honors and awards received during this service.
Let’s start by looking at your Scoutbook…..Eagle Requirement Number 5 says:
While a Life Scout, plan, develop, and give leadership to others in a service project helpful to any religious institution, any school, or your community. (The project must benefit an organization other than Boy Scouting.) A project proposal must be approved by the organization benefiting from the effort, your unit leader and unit committee, and the council or district before you start. You must use the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, BSA publication No. 512-927, in meeting this requirement.
Almost….You can start to think about your Project before you are Life and share your ideas and get input before you are Life, but you must be a Life Scout before you start the Planning and Approval Process required by the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook.
Yes, but a bit over simplified. By the time you’ve made Life, you fully understand the meaning of the Scout Oath and Law, have learned Leadership as you’ve progressed through the ranks and know the meaning and importance and honor of the Eagle Scout Rank. You should consider all of this, as you work to select a Project.
Fundraisers are not allowed and neither is regular maintenance, like pulling weeds or periodic painting. These are all good ideas to start with, but I’d really like you to give some thought as to whom your project will help and the impact it will have on the community. I like to see Scouts find Community Service Projects which help people and organizations with a real need (and in today’s connected society……”Community” is really the whole world). I also like to see Projects where the Scouts you are leading, learn from the experience, by being exposed to people and situations they would not come in contact with in their normal routine. Take your bench idea for example. Rather than build benches in our town park, find a school a few towns over, in an underserved community, where they could use the benches and a podium as an outdoor classroom. You could lead you’re workers (fellow Scouts, friends and family) to do the building at home in your garage, then deliver them and plan an activity at the school, and meet the children and teachers who will use the outdoor classroom. This is the kind of Project you can proudly discuss on a college interview, and shows you really understand and live by the Scout Oath and Law.
Your Project Proposal is reviewed by a number of people on the way to getting approval, and they all have expectations of what makes a good Eagle Project. There are no requirements for the size of an Eagle Project, the number of hours required to complete a project or the number of people (but at least you and two others) who work on the project. You are required to demonstrate your ability to plan, develop and provide leadership on the project you select. I’d like you to find a Project that will be a challenge to accomplish, one you will be proud to have completed. It must be your Project, and you must take the lead in doing the work. For starters you can talk to me as your Scoutmaster, and we can brainstorm for ideas. You may need to go talk to the organization you will do the project for, to make sure they like the idea, and see if they have any particular requirements. Next step is to select an Eagle Project Mentor which can be any of the dad’s in the Troop, who will help you complete the Eagle Service Project Workbook. Then you submit the Workbook to your Project Sponsor, Committee Chair and Scoutmaster for their review and approval. Then the completed Workbook is submitted to the District Advancement Committee for a final review and approval. Once you have the District okay, you can start work on your Project. I know this sounds a bit complicated, but your Eagle Project Coach will help you….and in some Troops there are additional resources, like an Eagle Project Review Committee, who review and comment on the Workbook before the Committee Chair and Scoutmaster sign.
Your Project should take a while to complete, maybe a few weekends over a month or longer. Your sponsor must sign off on your Workbook, indicating they accept your Project and it is completed. Remember, you must complete your Project, all your Merit Badges and Leadership Assignment before your 18th birthday, so timing is important. Once you have all the requirements done, you have one last Scoutmaster Conference, and then an Eagle Board of Review. A representative from the District will be present at your Board of Review, and the Board must be satisfied you completed all the Eagle Requirements (and accept your completed Project), before you are awarded Eagle.
The Eagle Scout Rank
Updated October 3, 2018 and January 30, 2019
The following information is updated from the printed "Guide to Advancement 2019."9.0.1.0 The Eagle Scout Rank Application Process.
Since 1912, the Eagle Scout rank has represented a milestone of accomplishment—perhaps without equal—that is recognized across the country and even the world. Those who have earned the Eagle Scout rank count it among their most treasured achievements. “Eagle Scout” is not just an award; it is a state of being. Those who earned it as youth continue to earn it every day as adults. That is why an Eagle Scout IS an Eagle Scout—not was.
Over the more than 100 years since the first Eagle, a formal application process has evolved that is important in maintaining the award’s well-recognized prestige. It is in the interest of the entire BSA, and in fact our nation, that all youth who join Scouts BSA in 2019 should have an opportunity to earn their Eagle Scout rank should they diligently and promptly complete all requirements. Click here to review the temporary transition rules for youth over 16 but not yet 18 years of age on February 1, 2019 interested in earning the Eagle Scout rank.
Topics 9.0.1.1 through 9.0.1.10, below, are intended to aid in reviewing and submitting the application and accompanying materials. It is hoped this will help Scouts, parents or guardians, or any adult leader or advancement administrator from the unit, district, or council to prevent delays in securing National Council approval and verification.
9.0.1.1 Complete All the RequirementsConfirm that the following requirements have been completed before the 18th birthday: active participation, Scout spirit, merit badges, position of responsibility, service project, and unit leader conference. Note that the unit leader (Scoutmaster) conference need not be the last item accomplished. The board of review may be conducted after the 18th birthday. For details, see “Boards of Review,” 8.0.0.0. A candidate must be registered through the time the requirements are being completed but need not be registered thereafter or when the Eagle Scout board of review is conducted.
9.0.1.2 Prepare the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook
The most current workbook must be used. It can be found at www.scouting.org/advancement. The workbook shows the project proposal was approved ahead of time, and then properly accepted by all parties when finished. Ideally, it will be a proud reminder of a significant accomplishment. See “Use the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook,” 9.0.2.8.
9.0.1.3 Complete the Application
The Scout must complete the official Eagle Scout Rank Application . No other form or application method is permitted. The application can be found at www.scouting.org/advancement. It can also be printed and completed by hand. Careful review and thorough proofreading will help prevent delays. Remember, everything is verified by the local council; discrepancies and errors will lead to a form’s return. Unnecessary delays can be avoided by working with the unit advancement coordinator and obtaining the Scout’s personal history profile from the council office. Pay special attention to the following red-flag items.
- Dates: All applicable date fields will be verified by the council. Missing or incorrect dates will lead to unwanted delays and the application being returned for correction. The best way to avoid these delays is to use the date information from the Scout’s personal profile, which the unit advancement coordinator can obtain from the council office.
- Signatures: Applicant, unit leader, and unit committee chair. (Remaining signatures come later.) Note that signatures need not be dated before the Scout’s 18th birthday.
- References: Must list all six (five if not employed). If not affiliated with an organized religion, then the parent or guardian provides this reference. There are no restrictions on who the Scout may list as the two other references. The candidate may list anyone, including parents or guardians not previously listed, other relatives, Scout leaders including those from the candidate’s unit, or other Scouts and friends. There is no requirement that any of the references be 21 years of age or older.
- Merit badges: Dates as mentioned above; check the unit number in which each badge was earned. Attach the Application for Alternative Eagle Scout Rank Merit Badges, if applicable. Scouts must not be required to attach blue cards with their application. If a discrepancy is discovered, the blue card may be requested to confirm the completion date.
- Position of responsibility: Must be one of those listed in Eagle Scout rank requirement 4, and must relate to the unit where the Scout was registered and active at the time service was rendered. For example, “SPL” would not be used by a crew member unless he or she was, or is, also registered in a troop. For a Scout who has transferred from a troop to a Venturing crew or Sea Scout ship, any qualifying position(s) held after the Life rank board of review in the troop shall count, and the six-month element of the requirement may be met through a combination of nonconcurrent positions served in the troop, crew, or ship. See also “Scouts BSA Advancement in Venturing and Sea Scouts,” 4.3.1.4.
- Attachments: Service project workbook, statement of ambitions and life purpose, and listing of positions, honors, and awards. Other attachments, such as unit records or individual history reports, shall not be required to process the application unless a discrepancy is discovered.
Scouts must submit the official Eagle Scout Rank Application, No. 512-728, found at www.scouting.org/advancement. No other form or application is permitted. Special worksheets or spreadsheets have been created in some councils that when filled out electronically produce a completed application. Because the official application changes from time to time, and because submitting out-of-date applications can cause confusion and delays, Scouts must not be required to use these tools. If they do use them, they still must complete and submit the official Eagle Scout Rank Application.
9.0.1.4 Obtain Required Signatures
The unit leader and committee chair signatures represent approval for the candidate to move on to a board of review. In providing them, the signers carefully check the application. It may be helpful to compare the application to the Scout’s current advancement profile obtained through the BSA system or to a printout obtained from the local council service center. If there are “red-flag” issues (see 9.0.1.3), such as time spans between ranks that don’t meet the requirements, then the dates should be confirmed. If they are correct but do not fit the requirement, then the Scout, parent or guardian, or unit leader should contact the district advancement chair for guidance. Usually, as with unavoidable discrepancies, a letter of explanation will be helpful in addressing the issue. Note there is no requirement that the signatures of the Scout, unit leader, and committee chair must be dated before the Scout’s 18th birthday.
If either of the approvals from the unit leader or the committee chair is withheld, a board of review must still be granted if requested by the Scout. For details, see “Initiating Eagle Scout Board of Review Under Disputed Circumstances,” 8.0.3.2.
9.0.1.5 Submit to Council Service Center
A copy should be made of the application; service project workbook; the Scout’s statement of ambitions and life purpose; and listing of positions, honors, and awards. Once copies are in safekeeping, the originals should be delivered promptly to the council service center. The candidate should not be delayed. Timeliness is especially critical if the candidate is approaching, or has already turned, 18. Sending materials late can imply the work continued afterward. If possible, everything should be hand-delivered. Otherwise it should be sent by registered or certified mail or as instructed by the local council. There is no requirement that the application must be completed or submitted before the 18th birthday. Councils do not have the authority to reject applications submitted on or after that date.
Councils may suggest service project workbooks (only) be sent or taken to a different person or location, such as a district advancement committee member. This has the potential for cost savings in sending it out for the board of review. An Eagle Scout candidate, however, should confirm that any related instructions are correct and up to date. If there is any concern the workbook will go to the wrong place, it should accompany the Eagle application to the council service center.
9.0.1.6 Council Verifies Application and Board of Review Scheduled
Everything is checked against council records. If information in the BSA system or council files is incomplete, the Scout or the unit will be asked to provide certificates, blue cards, or other suitable proof that merit badges and ranks were earned and that dates are accurate. The regular use of the BSA internet portal for reporting advancement as described in section 6 will help expedite this process. If everything is correct, the council provides a verification signature, files a copy of the application, and sends the original with the service project workbook and other items (such as reference letters received) to the board of review chair or other designated volunteer. The board should be scheduled only after the council-verified application is received.
9.0.1.7 References Contacted
Council advancement committee members—or others designated—have the responsibility to secure recommendations from the references appearing under requirement 2 on the Eagle Scout Rank Application. This may be done by letter, form, or phone call. For reasons of privacy and confidentiality, electronic submissions are discouraged.
It is acceptable to send or deliver to the references an addressed envelope with instructions, and perhaps a form to complete. Scouts may assist with this, but that is the limit of their participation. Scouts are not responsible for follow
through or any other aspect of the process. It is up to the council’s designated representatives to collect the responses. If after a reasonably diligent effort no response can be obtained from any references, the board of review must go on without them. It must not be postponed or denied for this reason, and the Scout shall not be asked to submit additional references or to provide replacements.
Completed reference responses of any kind are the property of the council and are confidential, and only review-board members and those officials with a specific need may see them. The responses are not to be viewed by or returned to the Scout. Doing so could discourage the submission of negative information. For the same reason, those providing references do not have the option of giving the reference directly to the Scout and shall not be given the option of waiving confidentiality. Once a review has been held, or an appeal process conducted, responses shall be returned to the council, where they will be destroyed after the Eagle Scout credentials are released or the appeal is concluded.
In Scouts BSA, advancement references are required only for Eagle Scout rank. The council determines methods of contact.
9.0.1.8 Application Returned to Council Service Center
If a board of review approves a candidate, the signed application, reference letters, and any information that might be considered confidential are returned to the local council. Unless otherwise directed, the service project workbook and statement of ambitions and life purpose can be returned to the Scout. If approval is denied, all materials are returned to the council.
9.0.1.9 Council Sends Application to National Advancement Team
At the council the Scout executive signs the application, certifying proper procedures were followed. The application is then entered into the BSA system, filed locally, and then extracted from the BSA system by the National Advancement Program Team. In special cases, such as those for Lone Scouts or Scouts more than six months past their 18th birthday, councils must submit applications via mail, email, or fax for manual processing.
9.0.1.10 National Advancement Program Team Returns Credentials
The National Advancement Program Team validates all applications received. Then the National Distribution Center generates the credentials and prints, packages, and mails the certificate, pocket card, and congratulatory letter to the council. Applications sent for manual processing go to the National Advancement Program Team and take several weeks to complete. Upon receipt of the Eagle credentials, council service center personnel should alert unit leadership immediately.
9.0.2.0 The Eagle Scout Service Project
While a Life Scout, plan, develop, and give leadership to others in a service project helpful to any religious institution, any school, or your community. (The project must benefit an organization other than the Boy Scouts of America.) A project proposal must be approved by the organization benefiting from the effort, your unit leader and unit committee, and the council or district before you start. You must use the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, BSA publication No. 512-927, in meeting this requirement.—Eagle Scout requirement 5
9.0.2.1 What an Eagle Scout Candidate Should Expect
While working toward completion of the Eagle Scout service project, especially during the proposal approval process, a candidate has the right to expect the following:
1. Questioning and probing for the candidate’s understanding of the project, the proposal, and what must be done, shall be conducted in a helpful, friendly, courteous, and kind-hearted manner. We will respect the Scout’s dignity. The Scout will be allowed, if desired, to have a parent, unit leader, or other adult present as an observer at any time the proposal or project is being discussed with someone who is reviewing it.
2. Project expectations will match Eagle Scout requirement 5, and we will not require proposals to include more than described in the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook.
3. If requested by the Scout or the Scout’s parent or guardian, an explanation of a proposal rejection will be provided in writing, with a copy sent to the council advancement chair and staff advisor. It will indicate reasons for rejection and suggestions concerning what can be done to achieve approval.
4. Guidance that maximizes the opportunity for completion of a worthwhile project will be readily available and strongly recommended. Ultimately, however, the responsibility for success belongs to the Scout, and final evaluation is left to the board of review.
5. A method of redress will be provided to a candidate who believes there has been mistreatment or that the proposal was wrongly rejected. This will include the opportunity for a second opinion and approval, either through another volunteer or professional advancement administrator, or the Scout executive, as determined by the council advancement committee or executive board.
An advancement administrator is a member or chair of a council or district advancement committee, or a volunteer or professional designated according to local practices, to assist in advancement administration.
9.0.2.2 “While a Life Scout …”
Work on a project, including planning, begins after the Life Scout board of review. But this is not meant to preclude an enthusiastic Star Scout from talking with his or her Scoutmaster, religious leader, or principal about what a good project might be.
9.0.2.3 “Plan, Develop …”
Planning and development require forethought, effort, and time—sometimes more than for execution. Thus, for the most part, they are considered part of the project and are detailed further once a proposal is approved. It is inappropriate to expect a Scout to invest the time required for detailed planning, only to face the prospect of rejection. See “Proposal Must Be Approved … Before You Start,” 9.0.2.7.
It is important not to categorically reject projects that, on the surface, may not seem to require enough planning and development. Consider, for example, a blood drive. Often rejected out of hand, this project, if done properly, could be acceptable. Few would question the beneficiary. Blood banks save lives—thousands of them: maybe yours, maybe that of a loved one. If the candidate proposes to use a set of “canned” instructions from the bank, implemented with no further planning, the planning effort would not meet the test.
On the other hand, there are councils in which Scouts and advancement committees have met with blood bank officials and worked out approaches that can comply. Typically these involve developing marketing plans and considering logistics. People successful in business know how important these skills are. Some blood banks will also set a minimum for blood collected as a measure of a successful plan. To provide another valuable lesson, they may require the candidate to keep at it until the goal has been met.
A good test of any project is to evaluate its complexity. In the case of a blood drive, for example, elements of challenge and complexity can be added so there is a clear demonstration of planning, development, and leadership.
9.0.2.4 “Give Leadership to Others …”
"Others” means at least two people besides the Scout. Helpers may be involved in Scouting or not, and of any age appropriate for the work. In cases where just three people are not able to conduct a project to the satisfaction of a beneficiary, then more would be advisable. It may be, however, that a well-chosen project conducted by only three provides an impact not achievable with those involving more.
One of the purposes for the project is to demonstrate leadership, but this could be considered a more important element, perhaps, for Scouts who have not yet established themselves as leaders. It is for reasons like these that every project must be evaluated, case-by-case, on its merits, and on lessons that will advance the candidate’s growth. Councils, districts, and units shall not establish requirements for the number of people led, or their makeup, or for time worked on a project. Nor shall they expect Scouts from different backgrounds, with different experiences and different needs, all to work toward a particular standard. The Eagle Scout service project is an individualized experience.
Councils, districts, and units shall not establish requirements for the number of people led, or their makeup, or for time worked on a project.
9.0.2.5 “Helpful to Any Religious Institution, Any School, or Your Community”
“Any religious institution” and “any school” are self explanatory. But what does “your community” mean? In today’s world of instant communications and speedy travel, we are affected more and more by what goes on all over the world. Prices for goods and services, investment values, our very safety, and how we feel about those less fortunate in other countries, all are involved. Thus, if Scouts want to take their oath “to help other people” more expansively and put their project to work for the “community of the world,” they are allowed to do so. A council may emphasize more local efforts but should not deny worthy projects of a wider scope.
If Scouts want to take their oath “to help other people” more expansively and put their project to work for the “community of the world,” they are allowed to do so.
Normally “your community” would not refer to individuals, although a council or district advancement committee may consider scenarios where an individual in need can affect a community. An example might involve elderly persons able to live at home but unable to maintain their property, with the result being an “attractive nuisance” or related dangerous situations, or even an eyesore— something that raises concern to more than that of just an individual. If it can be determined the community benefits, then it is a matter of identifying who will provide approvals. They must come from a source representing the “community,” such as a neighborhood association, watch group, homeowners association, or perhaps a division of a town or county.
The project beneficiary need not be a registered nonprofit. Projects may not be of a commercial nature or for a business, but this is not meant to disallow community institutions that would otherwise be acceptable to the council or district advancement committee. These might include museums and various service agencies, or some homes for the elderly, for example. Some aspect of a business’s operation provided as a community service may also be considered; for example, a park open to the public that happens to be owned by a business. In cases such as these, the test is whether the project primarily benefits the community, as opposed to the profits of the business.
9.0.2.6 “Benefit an Organization Other Than the Boy Scouts of America”
“To help other people at all times” is a basic tenet. The Eagle Scout service project is an important and meaningful opportunity to practice what we teach. Projects must not be performed for the Boy Scouts of America or its councils, districts, units, camps, and so forth. The unit’s chartered organization, however, is certainly a good candidate, as are other, international Scouting organizations or other youth organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
To help project beneficiaries understand the Eagle Scout service project requirement along with the responsibilities and the rights that come with the benefit, the National Advancement Program Team has prepared an information sheet for project beneficiaries, called “Navigating the Eagle Scout Service Project,” which appears in the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook.
9.0.2.7 “Proposal Must Be Approved … Before You Start”\
The Five Tests of an Acceptable Eagle Scout Service Project.
The proposal is an overview, but also the beginnings of planning. It shows the unit leader and any representatives of a unit committee, council, or district, that the following tests can be met.
- The project provides sufficient opportunity to meet the requirement.
- The project appears to be feasible.
- Safety issues will be addressed.
- Action steps for further detailed planning are included.
- The Scout is on the right track with a reasonable chance for a positive experience.
The unit committee is responsible for an approval of the proposal. It is acceptable for a troop, crew, or ship committee to designate representative(s) to act on its behalf. This is a unit decision. Neither the district nor the council may institute restrictions, such as how many committee members are to be involved.
The form for preparing a proposal appears in the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, No. 512-927. Completing it will represent a reasonable time investment and an introductory learning experience, and also provide the information needed for approval. The candidate shall not be required to submit more than is described there, or more than is necessary to establish that a project can meet the above tests.
Space is provided in the workbook for the candidate to record comments made during discussions with the district or council volunteer going over the proposal. A thorough review should generate numerous suggestions, cautions, and perhaps concerns (see “What an Eagle Scout Candidate Should Expect,” 9.0.2.1). The Scout should be encouraged to write these down and take them seriously. When the reviewer is satisfied the five tests above can be met, then approval is granted.
It is important to be as considerate of an Eagle Scout candidate’s time as we expect him or her to be of ours. The Scout is probably just as busy. Every attempt should be made to complete the approval process in one meeting. Then the Scout should be challenged to work on planning action steps and to consider scheduling time with the assigned Eagle Scout service project coach for progress reports and further guidance (see “Eagle Scout Service Project Coach,”9.0.2.9). It is advisable that one of these meetings with the coach be held after the Scout has prepared the project plan and is ready to begin actual work on the project.
It is acceptable for the coach or the advancement administrator responsible for approval—if he or she becomes concerned the project will not meet the requirements or it will not be completed to the satisfaction of the benefiting organization—to contact the Scout and his or her parent or guardian, or unit leader and, as appropriate, a representative of the beneficiary. However, even though the project coach may provide guidance critical to success, final design issues are ultimately between the Scout and the beneficiary. For limitations on the coach’s role, see “Eagle Scout Service Project Coach,” 9.0.2.9.
From time to time Scouts will “jump the gun” and begin fundraising efforts—or even work on the project itself— before a proposal is approved. This is counter to the requirements and well covered in multiple documents, but still it happens. Normally then, a Scout should select a different project. If circumstances are compelling, however—indicating leniency can be extended and a lesson learned without significant detriment to fulfilling the project’s purpose—the Scout may be allowed to carry on and have the proposal or project approved after the fact.
Because it is virtually impossible to forecast every contingency, candidates must be allowed a level of flexibility in carrying out proposals and planning action steps. But essential elements of a proposal should not be changed without good reason. If this must occur, the Scout should consult the project coach or unit leader for advice. It is appropriate to strongly suggest the Scout share substantive changes with the project beneficiary, and also with those involved in preapprovals.
If it appears changes will cause results to fall below what is required, then cautionary advice is in order. Except under extreme circumstances, it is not acceptable for unit, or council or district, approval to be withdrawn. If the Scout decides to strike out on their own, that is his or her prerogative. At some point, responsibility must take over. The board of review decides whether planning was sufficient and if the requirement was met.
The project beneficiary can stop work on an approved project at any time. If enough has been done—such that the requirement’s intent has been met—then the project should still be given final approval. In extreme cases where changes could involve such issues as violations of law or BSA policy, or if they bring about unacceptable levels of risk, then district or council advancement administrators may bring this to the attention of the Scout, the Scout’s parent or guardian, the unit leader, and call for work to be suspended until compliance is achieved.
9.0.2.8 “Use the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook“Using the workbook, No. 512-927, helps candidates avoid pitfalls. If properly used, it very nearly assures success. It shows approvals have been secured, lists important limitations, suggests questions for those approving the project, and includes outlines for the proposal and the more detailed project plan that should come next.
The workbook should not, however, become a basis for rejecting candidates based on “technicalities” that have nothing to do with requirement intent. While the use of the workbook is required, this does not mean that every line or even every form must be completed. In most cases Scouts should fully complete the proposal and project report, and be strongly encouraged to complete the project plan. However, at times it may not be feasible or just not necessary for establishing that the requirement was met.
If it is clear the project was completed and approved of, and meets Eagle Scout requirement 5 as it is written, then the project should be considered. If it will be a hardship, or a poor use of time to fill in missing information or obtain a signature of a party who is unavailable or by some other means known to have approved it, then it is appropriate to accept it. There is something to be said for “object lessons,” but keep in mind that write-ups and signatures, though important, are simply supportive. Note that project report signatures need not be dated before the Scout’s 18th birthday. It is a project that we require. Boards of review should use common sense: Did the project meet the requirements or not? Was there planning and development? Was there leadership of others?
The workbook should not become a basis for rejecting candidates based on “technicalities” that have nothing to do with the intent of the requirement.
The requirement that Scouts use the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook means they must use the official document as produced by the Boy Scouts of America. Although it is acceptable to copy and distribute it, and even to transfer it to a different software platform or operating system, it must maintain the same appearance. No council, district, unit, or individual has the authority to require additional forms, or to add or change requirements, or to make any additions, deletions, or changes in the text, outlines, graphics, or other layout or informational elements of the workbook.
9.0.2.9 Eagle Scout Service Project CoachThe Eagle Scout service project coach is the subject matter expert on the processes and standards of the service project. He or she is the key to success in council or district efforts to provide guidance as Scouts work to fulfill requirement 5. The following are important examples of ways in which the coach can influence a Scout’s project:
- Meet with a Scout after the proposal has been approved but before work begins on the project plan.
- Ask how the Scout will plan the project, then offer advice accordingly.
- Emphasize those elements of a plan that, if ignored, could stop work or create health and safety issues.
- Remind the Scout to share the project plan with the project beneficiary; the beneficiary should be fully aware of what will be done. Note that project plans for an Eagle Scout service project are between the Scout and the beneficiary. Coaches do not approve project plans.
- Be available to the Scout as a consultant to answer any questions about the planning process.
- Meet with the Scout to review the project plan; discuss its strengths, weaknesses, and risks; and suggest critical improvements.
- Discuss the project report with the Scout and offer advice on how to make a strong presentation at the Scout’s board of review.
Experience has taught us the most effective approach to providing coaches is for the council or district to organize a pool of volunteers willing to serve in that capacity, and then designate them to individual Eagle Scout candidates. Many units have used service project “mentors” or “advisors” through the decades since the Eagle Scout service project came to be. This practice has provided consistent positive contributions and should continue.
Their efforts, however, should serve to provide ongoing support throughout project planning and execution and to prepare a Scout to work with the council or district designated project coach.
The role of the designated project coach is not intended to require so close an association with a Scout that it becomes impossible for a council or district to recruit enough of them to work with candidates whose proposals have been approved. The more ongoing and close association should come from unit volunteers or parents assisting in support roles. It is recognized, however, that some councils or districts may not have the volunteer capacity to provide designated coaches. For this reason, the council advancement committee may decide to designate the project coach from among unit volunteers. But they should do so with the understanding that a coach who is designated within a unit should represent the perspective of the council or district.
Regardless the source of project coaches, they must adhere to the Eagle Scout service project process as described in this section of the Guide to Advancement. Coaches do not have approval authority. Instead they serve to encourage—not direct—the Scouts to make the kinds of decisions that will lead to successful outcomes.
It is true a Scout need not accept the assistance of the service project coach. Regardless, it is considered best for the council or district to designate one for every Scout who submits a project proposal for approval. The coach should then contact the Scout and suggest a first meeting, or telephone or video conference. Scouts have already promised when they submit a proposal that they have read the service project workbook, and thus they should already understand a coach is optional. Scouts who suggest they don’t need one should be counseled on the value a coach can add. Ultimately, however, working with a designated Eagle Scout service project coach is the Scout’s decision.
It is important to note that Eagle service project coaches do not have the authority to dictate changes; withdraw approval that was previously granted, such as by the council or district; or take any other such directive action. Instead, coaches must use the BSA method of positive adult association, logic, and common sense to help the candidate make wise decisions.
It is up to the council to determine who may serve as project coaches and how they might be assigned or otherwise provided to candidates. Coaches must be registered with the BSA (in any adult position) and be current in BSA Youth Protection training.
In many cases, candidates will not have undertaken something like an Eagle service project. Thus, we want them to obtain guidance from others, share ideas, seek plan reviews, and go through other processes professional project planners might use. But like a professional, the Scouts makes the decisions. They must not simply follow others’ directions to the point where their own input becomes insignificant. On the other hand, adult leaders must bear in mind these are youth. Expectations must be reasonable and fitting.
9.0.2.10 Fundraising IssuesProjects may not be fundraisers. In other words, the candidate may not stage an effort that primarily collects money, even if it is for a worthy charity. Fundraising is permitted only for securing materials and otherwise facilitating a project. Fundraising must be approved by the local council except for contributions from the beneficiary, the candidate, the chartered organization, and the candidate’s parents, guardians, or relatives, as well as the unit or individuals in the unit.
Fundraising for an Eagle Scout service project shall not be required of any candidate. Whether or not fundraising takes place is the Scout’s decision based on project needs. The BSA prefers, in fact, that Scouts choose projects that can be done at little or no cost. Fundraising—especially on a larger scale—has tax, accounting, and other legal implications, in which minors should not be involved. Thus, if fundraising is to take place, it is best that it be kept simple. Typical unit fundraisers with which unit leadership is familiar, such as car washes, are the best options. Another alternative, contingent on local council approval, is the use of “crowdfunding” via the internet. If this method is used, however, then all concerned, including the Scout, the Scout’s parent or guardian, the unit leader and those approving fundraising at the local council, should be aware that fees may be involved and that fundraising for something like an Eagle project may or may not comply with the website’s terms of service. There can be other issues as well, such as what to do if more—or less—than what is needed is raised. It is important that someone in a position of responsibility reads and understands the website’s “fine print.”
If fundraising takes place, Eagle candidates must also be allowed the choice not to be involved in it. If Scouts do give leadership to fundraising efforts, then this can be considered in fulfilling that part of requirement 5 to “give leadership to others.” If Scouts are not involved, or if all of the contributions come from relatives, for example, the Scout shall not be penalized. The Scout’s leadership in the project itself should be the primary basis for determining whether requirement 5 has been met.
The Scout must make it clear to all donors or event participants that the money is being raised on behalf of the project beneficiary, which will retain leftover funds. Should any donors want documentation of a gift, this must be provided through the project beneficiary, not the Boy Scouts of America. Once collected, money raised must be turned over to the beneficiary or the candidate’s unit until needed for the project. If the unit receives the funds, it must release any excess to the beneficiary once expenses have been paid.
If the beneficiary is not allowed, for whatever reason, to retain any excess funds, supplies, or materials, the beneficiary should be asked to designate a suitable charity to receive them or allow the unit to retain the funds. The unit must not influence this decision.
For additional detail see “Procedures and Limitations on Eagle Scout Service Project Fundraising,” found in the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, No. 512-927, on the reverse of the Eagle Scout Service Project Fundraising Application.
The Eagle Scout Service Project Fundraising Application, found in the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, is used to obtain approval when required. Note that local councils may add further definition to the standards established here or on the application form. For example, they could state that fundraisers such as bake sales and car washes do not require a fundraising application and are, in essence, preapproved. They could also establish dollar thresholds; for example, “Any effort expected to raise less than $500 does not require an application.” Completed forms are sent to the local council service center where they are routed to those responsible for approval. This may be a district executive or another staff member, the council or district advancement committee, a finance committee, etc., as determined appropriate by the local council.
The Eagle Scout Service Project Fundraising Application must not be required to accompany the project proposal. At that point in the process, the Scout may not have enough information to complete the application.
9.0.2.11 Routine LaborRoutine labor is not normally considered appropriate for a project. This might be defined as a job or service that a Scout may provide as part of his or her daily life, or a routine maintenance job normally done by the beneficiary (for example, picking the weeds on the football field at a school). But the real test has to do with scale and impact. If “routine labor” is conducted on so large a scale it requires planning, development, and leadership, it may have sufficient impact.
9.0.2.12 Addressing Common Misconceptions
- No unit, district, council, or individual shall place any requirement or other standard on the number of hours spent on a project. The Boy Scouts of America collects data about time worked on Eagle Scout service projects only because it points to a level of excellence in achieving the BSA aim related to citizenship.
- Eagle Scout service projects are individual matters. No more than one candidate may receive credit for working on the same project.
- There is no requirement a project must have lasting value.
- Any plans completed after the project proposal has been approved by the council or district are between the Scout and the beneficiary. The role of beneficiaries in reviewing plans is explained in the service project beneficiary information sheet, “Navigating the Eagle Scout Service Project,” that is posted on the Advancement Resources page at www.scouting.org/advancement, and is included in the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook.
There may be instances where, upon its completion, the unit leader or project beneficiary chooses not to approve a project. One or the other may determine, for example, that modifications were so significant that the extent of service or the impact of the project were insufficient to warrant approval. The candidate may be requested to do more work or even start over with another project. The candidate may or may not choose to meet these requests. If the candidate believes the project, as completed, meets the intent of requirement 5, then it is appropriate to complete and submit the Eagle Scout Rank Application along with the project workbook without final approval. If requested, the Scout must be granted a board of review.
If it is thought a unit board may not provide a fair hearing, a board of review under disputed circumstances may be initiated. (See “Initiating Eagle Scout Board of Review Under Disputed Circumstances,” 8.0.3.2.) The risk in this approach—that the board may decide negatively—should be discussed with the Scout. But at the same time, the fact the Scout is so convinced may point to a need to reevaluate what was done. Perhaps, despite the lack of final approval, the project did indeed meet the requirement.
From time to time, beneficiaries unfamiliar with the Eagle Scout service project process may decline to approve a completed project even though it was helpful and had a positive impact. For example, there have been situations in which beneficiaries sought to require last-minute additions before signing off, and others where new management had different ideas about what should have been done. In these cases it is appropriate for the Scout to move forward without the final approval, and for the board of review to understand that the requirement has been met, regardless.
At the board of review, if an approved proposal and any subsequent effort represents planning and development that was adequate to the project, and the project was well led and carried out to the satisfaction of the unit leader and project beneficiary, only in a very rare case would rejection result. It would have to be clearly established that Eagle Scout requirement 5--as written— was not completed. Under no circumstances shall project approval at any point in the process be withheld for reasons that have nothing to do with the project.
At the board of review, if an approved proposal and any subsequent effort represents planning and development that was adequate to the project, and the project was well led and carried out to the satisfaction of the unit leader and project beneficiary, only in a very rare case would rejection result.
9.0.2.14 Risk Management and Eagle Scout Service ProjectsAll Eagle Scout service projects constitute official Scouting activity and thus are subject to Boy Scouts of America policies and procedures. Projects are considered part of a unit’s program and are treated as such with regard to policies, procedures, and requirements regarding Youth Protection, two-deep leadership, etc.
Unit leadership should be aware of project plans and schedules. The health and safety of those working on Eagle projects must be integrated into project execution. Since an Eagle Scout service project is a unit activity, unit adult leadership has the same responsibility to assure safety in conducting a project as with any other unit activity. The unit leader or unit committee should reject proposals for inherently unsafe projects. The candidate should plan for safe execution, but it must be understood that minors cannot and must not be held responsible for safety concerns. As with any Scouting activity, the Guide to Safe Scouting applies. The “Sweet 16 of BSA Safety” must also be consulted as an appropriate planning tool. It can be found online at “Scouting Safely,” www.scouting.org/health-andsafety/gss/sweet16.
See “Service Projects,” 4.2.3.3, for general guidelines on service project safety requirements and for information about related documents from the national Health and Safety Committee.
9.0.2.15 Insurance and Eagle Scout Service ProjectsThe Boy Scouts of America’s General Liability Policy provides general liability insurance coverage for official Scouting activities. Registered adult leaders are provided primary coverage. Unregistered adults participating in a Scouting activity are provided coverage in excess of their personal insurance.
Every council has the opportunity to participate in the BSA Accident and Sickness insurance program. It provides some insurance for medical and dental bills arising from Scouting activities. If councils do not purchase this, then units may contract for it. In some cases chartered organizations might provide insurance, but this must not be assumed. Most of these programs provide only secondary coverage, and are limited to registered youth and adults and those interested in becoming members.
9.0.2.16 Eagle Scout Service Projects and Messengers of PeaceAny Scout or Scouter who participates in a service project—Eagle Scout, Quartermaster, and Venturing Summit Award service projects included—that has a significant impact on the community in any one of the following three dimensions may qualify as a “Messengers of Peace” and wear the Messengers of Peace ring patch available from Scout shops.
- The personal dimension: harmony, justice, and equality
- The community dimension: peace as opposed to hostility or violent conflict
- Relationships between humankind and its environment: security, social and economic welfare, and relationship with the environment
For more information about Messengers of Peace, please visit www.scouting.org/messengersofpeace.
9.0.3.0 About Eagle PalmsScouts or qualified Venturers and Sea Scouts may earn Palms after they have achieved the Eagle Scout rank. The requirements can be found in the Scouts BSA Requirements book. All of the requirements must be completed before age 18, and time extensions are not available. Merit badges earned at any time since becoming a registered Scouts BSA member may be used. Palms are not considered ranks, but rather degrees of the Eagle Scout rank.
9.0.4.0 Time ExtensionsA Scout who foresees that, due to no fault or choice of their own, it will not be possible to complete the Eagle Scout rank requirements before age 18, may apply for a limited time extension. See “Process for Submitting and Evaluating an Extension Request,” 9.0.4.1, item No. 1. These are rarely granted and reserved only for work on Eagle. When a time extension is requested, the Scout should continue working on the requirements as processing occurs. In most cases, for a request to be considered the following five tests must be met.
- The member joined or rejoined—or became active again after a period of inactivity—in time to complete all requirements before turning 18. That is, the time remaining between joining, or rejoining, and when the Scout turns 18 is more than the total of the active-time requirements for the ranks left to achieve.
- A circumstance came to exist that now precludes completion before the deadline. Examples might include a health-related incident requiring a hospital stay, a disabling injury, a significant employment conflict, a family relocation, a family emergency, a natural disaster, severe unseasonable weather that could not have been anticipated, or unforeseen actions of others affecting the youth’s ability to complete the requirements. It is extremely unlikely an extension will be granted if resolution of the circumstance—such as recovery from an injury, for example—still allows enough time for an adequate service project, or for completing the position of responsibility, active participation, or merit badge requirements if they have not already been met.
- The circumstance is totally beyond the control of the youth member. Injuries, unanticipated family incidents, or various mistakes or omissions by adults, for example, could be legitimate causes. The Boy Scouts of America assumes anyone working on Scouts BSA ranks has a Scouts BSA Handbook and has read the requirements. Despite this, misinformation from unit leadership is often cited as grounds for extensions. These cases will be considered, but they should be very rare and would point to a need for basic training and assistance.
- The circumstance is severe and not the norm of the Scout’s life. In most cases, Scouts are expected to overcome life’s ordinary trials. Cause for an extension normally requires an extraordinary circumstance uncommon to the youth. For example, known circumstances such as moderate learning disabilities or ADD/ADHD that the Scout has faced over many years and has coped with in the past, should not suddenly become an issue shortly before the Scout’s 18th birthday.
It is important for council and district advancement committees to keep unit leadership informed of this so it does not become a surprise. An exception might be considered for Scouts with significant disabilities that do not meet the level of severity or permanence required for registration beyond the age of eligibility, but are such that they essentially preclude advancement within the timeframe allowed.
- The circumstance could not have been planned for or anticipated. If it is health-related, it should have been unforeseen and of recent onset, or a complication or intensification of an ongoing issue.
9.0.4.1 Process for Submitting and Evaluating an Extension RequestThe council advancement committee’s role is to select at least two committee members to research the request, collect and evaluate evidence, recommend action to the Scout, and if requested, provide the evidence with a position statement to the National Advancement Program Team. Throughout the process, it must be remembered that time is of the essence.
If a Sea Scout or Venturer foresees that, due to no fault or choice of his or her own, he or she will be unable to complete the Quartermaster rank or Summit Award requirements before age 21, the same tests, process, and form described here in topics 9.0.4.0 and 9.0.4.1 apply, and must be followed to request an extension of time to earn the Quartermaster rank or Summit Award.
See “Request for Extension of Time to Earn Eagle Scout Rank,” 11.2.0.0 , in the appendix, and check one of the boxes at the top of the page indicating the Quartermaster rank or the Summit Award is involved.
The local council does not grant or deny time extensions. These are granted only through the National Advancement Program Team after consideration of local council recommendations.
- The Scout, the Scout’s parent or guardian, the unit leader, or a member of the unit committee may file the request. It is preferred that the request be made in the form of a letter that is signed and dated by the author. It is sent to the council service center to the attention of the council’s designated appeals coordinator. It is preferred that requests be submitted before the 18th birthday or, if not, the reason for the delay is stated. The request must indicate the number of months after the 18th birthday that will be necessary to complete the requirements. The Request for Extension form (Appendix 11.2.0.0 ) is prepared by the council after it has completed their review; see item No. 5.
- The request must document the circumstances. For example, if the cause is health related, then a statement from a health professional must be provided. If the cause relates to adult error or misinformation, then the adult(s) involved, if available, must provide a statement. It is not sufficient simply to provide a summary of occurrences without the support of information from those with personal knowledge of what happened.
- The council advancement chair and staff advisor select at least two council advancement committee members to research the request and prepare a summary report for the council advancement committee. The council-designated appeals coordinator should brief them on the procedures outlined herein. They should obtain statements from those with knowledge of the case, or interview them and then prepare written summaries. The candidate must be included in the process in order to ascertain circumstances were beyond the Scout’s control, as must any adults available who committed errors or provided misinformation. In some cases, it is a good idea to hold face-to-face interviews—for example, those where the lack of a Scouts BSA Handbook or ignorance of requirements is cited.
- The council advancement committee must review the evidence and prepare a position statement. This is shared with the Scout, the Scout’s parent or guardian, the unit leader, and the unit committee chair. The council, however, does not grant or deny the extension. Only the National Advancement Program Team has that authority.
- The Scout then decides whether to pursue the extension with the National Advancement Program Team. If affirmative the Request for Extension of Time to Earn Eagle Scout Rank form (see 11.2.0.0 ) must be fully completed by the council advancement committee or designee and then signed by the Scout executive. It must provide a recommendation for acceptance or denial, and indicate the length of the desired extension. A packet with the supporting documentation, the position statement, and the extension request form is then forwarded to the National Advancement Program Team. The position statement must be more than a cover letter; it must address the evidence gathered and include an explanation of how the requested amount of time was calculated. All requests, letters, and position statements must include the date and signature of the author. A decision can usually be delivered within two to four weeks. Packets without complete information will be returned to the council without further review.