When parents think about setting their children up for success, they often consider academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and career readiness. Yet, one of the most impactful experiences a child can have—one that shapes character, leadership, and practical life skills—is Scouting.
I say this not just as someone who has been involved in Scouting for decades, but as a father who has seen the transformative impact of Scouting on my own children. Scouting isn’t just another activity—it’s a lifelong foundation that prepares young people to tackle challenges, develop confidence, and become leaders in their communities and careers.
Scouting as a Guide for Life’s Challenges
One of the most profound ways Scouting has influenced my life is through the Scout Law and Scout Promise. These simple yet powerful principles have guided my decisions, even in the most complex situations. They offer a moral compass that helps navigate dilemmas with integrity, responsibility, and courage.
I first learned these values as a young Scout in the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, where I earned the Scout Citizen Award. Later, with Scouting America, I achieved the Eagle Scout rank with a Bronze Palm and was nominated to the Order of the Arrow, an honor society recognizing Scouting’s most dedicated members. These experiences shaped my outlook and instilled a deep commitment to service and leadership—qualities that have stayed with me throughout my career.
My commitment to Scouting continued well into adulthood, serving as National Commissioner and International Commissioner for Scouts Canada and currently as a trustee and Chair of the fundraising committee for the Interamerican Scout Foundation. Through these roles, I’ve seen firsthand how Scouting transforms lives—not just in Canada and the US, but in countries worldwide.
Scouting Develops Essential Life Skills
Parents often ask me: What does Scouting teach beyond tying knots and camping?
The answer? More than I can count. But if I had to highlight the most impactful skills, these would be at the top:
1. Leadership and Goal-Setting
Scouts learn to lead from a young age. Whether it’s organizing a camping trip, leading a patrol, or mentoring younger Scouts, they take responsibility in a hands-on, real-world way.
One of the greatest benefits is goal-setting. In Scouting, advancement is structured around earning badges, which requires setting objectives, planning, and executing steps to achieve them. My own children, who went through Scouting, credit this process with shaping their ability to succeed in academics and their careers.
Whether they were aiming for a STEM-related badge or a community service project, they learned to break down big goals into manageable steps—a skill that serves them in school, work, and life.
2. Public Speaking and Confidence
Public speaking is one of the most valuable skills anyone can develop, yet many people fear it. Scouting removes that fear early on. From leading troop meetings to presenting ideas at a board of review, Scouts are constantly challenged to speak in front of others.
This confidence carries over into adulthood. I’ve met countless former Scouts who attribute their ability to excel in job interviews, leadership roles, and even high-stakes negotiations to their early experiences in Scouting.
3. Teamwork and Problem-Solving
Scouts don’t just learn teamwork—they experience it in action. A patrol cannot function without cooperation, delegation, and problem-solving. When you’re in the middle of a backpacking trip and a tent collapses in the rain, or when a service project requires coordinating with multiple organizations, Scouts learn to think critically and adapt.
These problem-solving skills become second nature, which is why many Scouts grow up to be successful entrepreneurs, engineers, and leaders in their respective fields.
4. Environmental Stewardship
At a time when environmental issues are at the forefront, Scouting teaches young people the importance of conservation and sustainable practices. Through Leave No Trace principles, outdoor ethics, and conservation projects, Scouts learn to appreciate nature and take responsibility for their impact on the planet.
Many Scouts go on to champion environmental initiatives in their careers and communities. Whether it’s starting a recycling program, promoting renewable energy, or advocating for conservation policies, Scouting instills a deep respect for nature.
5. Community Service and Citizenship
Scouting teaches that leadership is about service, not just achievement. Scouts are constantly engaged in community service projects, whether it’s helping the elderly, cleaning up parks, or organizing food drives.
This spirit of giving back creates compassionate, engaged citizens who understand the power of service. Many of today’s most respected leaders, including CEOs, military generals, and government officials, started as Scouts and credit their commitment to public service to their Scouting experience.
A Global Perspective on Scouting
One of the most incredible aspects of Scouting is its global reach. I’ve had the privilege of participating in Scouting events across the world, from the Philippines and Canada to Finland, Sweden, Japan, South Korea, Peru, Paraguay, Azerbaijan, and Egypt.
Through international conferences and jamborees, Scouts get to experience different cultures, forge friendships across borders, and gain a broader understanding of the world. These experiences foster tolerance, curiosity, and a global mindset, which are essential traits for success in today’s interconnected world.
Why Parents Should Sign Up Their Children for Scouting
So, why should parents encourage their children to join Scouting?
- Character Development – Scouting instills lifelong values like honesty, perseverance, and responsibility.
- Practical Skills – From survival skills to financial literacy, Scouts gain hands-on experience that many schools don’t teach.
- Career Readiness – Leadership, goal-setting, and teamwork skills give Scouts an edge in their careers.
- Outdoor Adventure – Scouting encourages children to unplug from screens and engage with the real world.
- Stronger Parent-Child Bonds – Many Scouting activities involve family participation, creating lasting memories.
The Lasting Impact of Scouting
Scouting isn’t just an activity—it’s a lifetime foundation for success. Whether your child dreams of becoming a doctor, an entrepreneur, or a community leader, the skills and experiences they gain in Scouting will equip them for whatever path they choose.
I encourage every parent to explore Scouting opportunities for their children. The investment of time and effort will pay off in ways you can’t imagine—because Scouting doesn’t just prepare young people for the next adventure, it prepares them for life.
If you’re considering enrolling your child in Scouting, reach out to a local troop or pack today. Give them the gift of confidence, leadership, and lifelong friendships—you won’t regret it.