The Scout Oath helps form the foundation of the Scouting movement. It is a foundation upon which youth can build a framework for making ethical and moral choices throughout their lifetimes. Thus, the theme of our 2002-2005 Strategic Plan is "On My Honor—Timeless Values."

To develop the plan, we asked knowledgeable people for their ideas and placed a single requirement on their input—make it achievable. We also requested that local councils throughout the country name the issues of greatest concern to them. From this vast amount of input, we identified five critical issues. And as you will read on the following pages, we are making tremendous progress toward achieving our goals in each of these areas.

Traditional Membership and Unit Growth

The traditional Scouting program, which includes Cub Scouting, Boy Scouting, Varsity Scouting, and Venturing, is the core bond between local communities and the Boy Scouts of America. To further our values and faith-based mission to serve young people and their families, the growth of traditional membership and units is essential.

Scoutreach

As America's population becomes more diverse, the organization continues to focus on providing Scouting to all minority communities. The BSA has always been and will continue to be strongly committed to offering its program to all economic and racial groups. It is the right thing to do and it ensures a �representative membership that encompasses all ethnic groups.

Leadership

It has been proven for over 90 years that to succeed, the Boy Scouts of America must have the right kind of volunteer and professional leadership. Leadership at all levels must be well trained and must be motivated to carry out the strategies of Scouting. For the organization to be successful and for the leaders to be successful, they need to understand and support the mission and vision of Scouting and communicate it effectively throughout the organization and beyond.


Respect for self and others is key to the success of the Scouting program.

Marketing and Strategic Positioning

Future growth depends on a clear understanding among parents, youth, chartered organizations, donors, and the general public that Scouting provides a unique value to the youth of this country and their families. The marketing message needs to build awareness and reinforce the fact that the Scouting program supports the physical, mental, and spiritual development needs of young people and their families. They need to understand membership is an investment that will pay dividends in the future.

Financial Development

Local councils that have adequate financial resources help ensure the future of the Boy Scouts of America. �Well-financed councils have the ability to have a full and well-trained staff, to provide outstanding facilities, to conduct excellent program, and to attract first-class volunteers. Emphasis will need to be placed on identifying, cultivating, and soliciting donors at all levels who support the mission and values of Scouting.

Today, the Boy Scouts of America exists in an extremely competitive environment. The fierce obstacles that local councils face for necessary resources reinforce the need for bold vision and strong leadership. The organization is committed to continue taking action on the five critical issues identified in the 2002-2005 Strategic Plan. By doing so, the Boy Scouts of America will continue to be strong and flexible in order to provide young people and their families a program of strong values, character development, and leadership.