WHO WE ARE
Navigators USA is an all-gender, inclusive youth adventure organization committed to opening minds and creativity through direct contact with nature. The core of our program is the Navigators Moral Compass, which reads:
"As a Navigator I promise to do my best to create a world free of prejudice and ignorance.
To treat people of every race, creed, lifestyle and ability with dignity and respect.
To strengthen my body and improve my mind to reach my full potential.
To protect our planet and preserve our freedom."
Through our organization, Navigator scouts develop life, leadership, and team building skills. Children and their families make new friends, connect with nature, and give back to their community. Children earn badges for learning skills, and an annual achievement award for their dedication to upholding the Moral Compass. Awards and community service hours obtained through Navigators can be used when applying to schools, jobs, and internship opportunities. The focus of Navigators USA is supporting the growth of strong, creative, resourceful individuals who understand and value the interconnection between themselves and greater world, and are prepared to be leaders for the next generation.
A DIFFERENT KIND OF SCOUTING
Navigators USA was founded in diversity, creativity, and autonomy, using nature as the starting point for family participation in community building. We are intentionally inclusive, welcoming people of all genders, races, belief systems, sexualities, lifestyles, and abilities.
While there are currently over 200 chapters of Navigators USA in the US, plus chapters in the UK, France, and Kenya, no two chapters are alike. All chapters are bound together by the Navigators Moral Compass and its message of inclusivity, tolerance, and respect of nature. However, each individual chapter of Navigators USA has the freedom to create its own structure, allowing programming to be built on the unique needs and interests of the youth involved, as well as the resources of the local community.
WHY JOIN US
The Navigators USA Guidebook states:
"The Navigators USA mission can be summed up in five easy points:
-to introduce boys and girls ages 5-17 to the great outdoors through camping, hiking, skiing, canoeing, rafting, and other adventure activities.
-to meet regularly to learn and practice wilderness skills and safety procedures.
-to help members participate in group games, sports, and community service.
-to develop social and group-building skills by planning frequent trips to natural settings during the school year.
-to encourage growth in all areas of personal development: social, physical, intellectual, creative, and emotional. We aim to spark intellectual curiosity in all areas, especially in areas related to the natural sciences and nature."
Outdoor education and exposure to the natural world has been shown to have physical, emotional, and social benefits for all people.
Unfortunately, many children and families face barriers to spending time outdoors related to race, class, socioeconomic status, ability-set, and many others. Navigators USA believes in building community and supporting every child in getting outdoors, developing skills, and learning to navigate relationships, life, and the planet.
