Core Values

Since its origin, the Scouting program has been an educational experience concerned with values. In 1910, the first activities for Scouts were designed to build character, physical fitness, practical skills, and service. These elements were part of the original Cub Scout program and continue to be part of Cub Scouting today. Character can be defined as the collection of core values possessed by an individual that leads to moral commitment and action. Core values are the basis of good character development. In helping children develop character, Cub Scouting promotes the following 12 core values.

Cub Scouting’s 12 Core Values

• Citizenship. Your child will learn respect for and care of the American flag, as an example.

• Compassion. We help our community and give the Scouts a chance to make a difference.

• Cooperation. Scouts often work in teams and have to learn to work together.

• Courage. We challenge scouts to do things like participate in skits.

• Faith. We support your family in your pursuit of your faith.

• Health and fitness. We do running, hiking and swimming.

• Honesty. We model and expect honest behavior

• Perseverance. It takes work to earn badges and belt loops.

• Positive attitude. Sometimes it is challenging, and we challenge our scouts to maintain a positive, supportive attitude.

• Resourcefulness. Many of our activities encourage scouts to use resources – including time well.

• Respect. Scouts learn to follow leaders and as they progress they become leaders. The Boy Scouts of America trains some of the best leaders in our Nation.

• Responsibility. Care of the scout uniform, care of the scout handbook, understanding and doing what is expected.

Character is “values in action” and a critical component of the Boy Scouts is the concept that leaders consistently model the character we expect our scouts to develop. We model following and leading.