Over the years, units, districts, and councils have had various volunteers fulfill the role of an Eagle Scout service project coach; though they may have used other titles such as advisor. The Guide to Advancement, topic, 9.0.2.9, “Eagle Scout Service Project Coach,” defines the coach’s role in council and district efforts to guide Scouts through the service project process.
Experience has shown that the most effective approach to providing coaches is for the council or district to organize a pool of BSA-registered volunteers willing to serve in this vital role. A coach should then be designated and assigned to individual Eagle Scout candidates at the time their service project proposals are approved.
The Guide to Advancement points out that the designated coach’s formal relationship to the Scout should be relatively short-lived, lasting only from the time the service project proposal is approved to the time the project report has been submitted. The coach’s role is very specific and oriented to guiding, counseling, and advising candidates to fully plan and successfully complete their projects. For example, the coach might help the Scout think through his planning steps; provide thoughts on fund-raising; offer counseling on a plan’s strengths, weaknesses, and risks; and advise the Scout on health and safety issues. Once the project has been completed the coach may consult on the development of a project report that will help the board of review make its decision.
The coach’s role is not intended to replace the on-going, close association and support provided by unit leaders or parents acting as “mentors” or “advisors.” In fact, the coach’s role is not intended to be exclusive; it should not preclude a single coach from having the time to serve multiple Eagle Scout candidates simultaneously.
Coaches must adhere to the Eagle Scout service project process as presented in the Guide to Advancement. They do not have the authority to approve, deny, direct, or dictate changes to a Scout’s plan. Instead, through positive adult association, logic, and common sense, a coach should encourage a Scout to make sound decisions that will lead to a successful project outcome.
An Eagle Scout candidate is not required to accept the assistance of a service project coach. Ultimately, it is his decision. However, it is best to be proactive and designate a coach for every Scout upon proposal approval. Then, should a Scout indicate he does not desire a coach, he can be counseled on the benefits of working with a coach.
Coaches should closely review and apply guidance provided by the following resources:
Eagle Scout Service Project Coach presentation Delivers the basic knowledge and skills needed to get started. It can also serve as a refresher for veterans.
Eagle Scout Service Project presentation addresses the process and requirements for proposing, conducting, and reporting on Eagle Scout Service Projects.
How to help Scouts make an Eagle Scout service project great provide additional insight into your role.