Why Should I Become an Eagle Scout?

Since it takes so much work, why is it done? What is the value to Eagle Scouts and to the community and what are the benefits? We hope the resources below offer some answers. Please also see the quotes in the photos above for additional perspectives.

One hundred years after Arthur Eldred of New York earned this nation’s first Eagle Scout Award, new, independent research demonstrates the significant, positive impact Eagle Scouts have on society every day.  Since it was first awarded in 1912, more than 2 million young men have achieved the Boy Scouts of America’s highest rank. The study conducted by Baylor University, Merit Beyond the Badges, found that Eagle Scouts are more likely than men who have never been in Scouting to:

• Have higher levels of planning and preparation skills, be goal-oriented, and network with others

• Be in a leadership position at their place of employment or local community

• Report having closer relationships with family and friends

• Volunteer for religious and nonreligious organizations

• Donate money to charitable groups

• Work with others to improve their neighborhoods

Click on the button above entitled, “Eagle Scouts: Merit Beyond the Badge” for more information on this study, including a download of the full study, its funding and authors.