"Scouting helps by giving Scouts with disabilities
an opportunity to prove to themselves and to others that they can do
things- and difficult things too- for themselves."
--Lord Baden-Powell
Since its founding in 1910, the Boy Scouts of America has included
fully participating members with physical, mental, and emotional
disabilities. The BSA's policy is to treat members with disabilities as
much like other members as possible. It has been traditional however, to
make some accommodations in advancement if absolutely necessary. By
adapting the environment and/or our instruction methods, most Scouts
with disabilities can be successful in Scouting.
The basic premise of Scouting for youth with disabilities is full
participation. Youth with disabilities can be treated and respected like
every other member of their unit. They want to participate like other
youth- and Scouting provides that opportunity.
You will find our leadership and our Cub Scouts to be welcoming to those with special needs.
Resources
- Scouting Magazine has a great list of resources for our program to assist those with special needs. You can read about it here.
- The Heart of America council provides great leadership and has a supply of information for all parents. You can read more here.