I am often asked why Scouting is important for me and essential for my son?

My response is simple and straight-forward. I compare Scouting to a compass. No matter where we find ourselves or in what conditions we find ourselves in, it always points North. It directs you to the correct direction to find your way "home." Scouting is a lot like that when you think of it. It provides a "North" which can guide you through the obstacles of life.

We live in a cynical and stressed out world. There are problems that did not exist, to the same extent, in families and children less than a generation ago. Scouting has relevance and importance to counter these conditions we find ourselves in.

Scouting's "North" is really the elements of the Scout Law. That a Scout is Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean and Reverent.

These traits or characters help one to lead a "good" life. They are important in making the difficult decisions in life that we all must navigate ourselves through. These traits reinforce what lessons we learn from our family, teachers and religious leaders. They provide a "guide book" as the Scout "hikes" through life's challenges to find his way "home."

Scouting teaches us that there is NOT one path for all boys as they progress through this program as well as life. The Scouting program fosters a multitude of interests for EVERY boy since EVERY boy is unique. Here in this program, ALL are welcome! It is not just camping and hikes. There are sports programs, civic projects, environmental projects, events that foster family participation and more importantly, they are ALL "fun with a purpose" to develop these young boys into independent men.

Scouting provides different "waypoints" in the life of a Scout as he "hikes" through life, but the "compass" that is set within him always points "North" to be a better citizen, husband, father and friend!

Gino Scartozzi
Adult leader and Scout father