100 Years of Scouting Banner Yankee Clipper Council - Boy Scouts of America
Northeastern Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire		 Waving American Flag
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100 Years of Community Service

Since the BSA's inception in 1910, members have learned to live the principles of the Scout Oath and Law through community services and "helping other people at all times." With that history in mind, the BSA has developed a service initiative - Good Turn for America.

What began with a singular act of service on a foggy London night quickly evolved into daily Good Turns and then into more encompassing national initiatives. These have included selling war bonds, collecting rubber and scrap metal, growing victory gardens during World War II, and more recently, Scouting for Food.

We now have the opportunity to raise our levels of community service and increase awareness of the Scouting program within our neighborhoods. Nationally, the Boy Scouts of America has partnered with The Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, the American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, America's Second Harvest, and the Department of Homeland Security to increase our efforts in meeting the challenges of the 21st century.

Good Turn for AmericaGood Turn for America will build on our members' and participants' current service efforts and will also include important partnerships with other community service organizations. These partnerships will provide many additional avenues for all of our members and participants to provide community service in their neighborhoods.

What is Good Turn for America?

Good Turn for America is a national call to service by the Boy Scouts of America to address the issues of hunger, homelessness, and poor health in our nation. In this effort, the Boy Scouts of America is partnering with some of the nation's most respected service organizations, including The Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, the American Red Cross, the American Cancer Society, America's Second Harvest, and the Department of Homeland Security. These organizations and thousands of others will work to provide opportunities for youth and volunteers to fight hunger and homelessness, and teach the habits of healthy living.

Youth and volunteers are looking for ways to serve their communities. At the same time, service organizations need dedicated volunteer help. By working together, we can improve our young people, our communities, and the nation.

How does Good Turn for America benefit my community?

Meeting the substantial needs of every community is dependent on its citizens to answer the call of volunteerism. There is a natural fit between the Boy Scouts of America and other community organizations. Service learning is an integral part of the Scouting program. As a result, youth and adults seek opportunities to volunteer. Community organizations need volunteers to help them fulfill their missions. Working with these organizations creates a win/win situation for everyone.

When will Good Turn for America end?

The initiative is scheduled to run through the BSA's 100th anniversary in 2010.

Do I have to be a member of the Boy Scouts of America to participate?

No. In order to fight hunger, provide shelter, and teach the habits of healthy living, we need your assistance. Contact your local Boy Scout council to find out how you can participate in your area.