The Best People to Send Eagle Scout Announcements To

When an Eagle Scout is achieved, it's important to reach out to individuals and groups who will appreciate the achievement and may want to celebrate it. Here are some suggestions for sending Eagle Scout announcements to the right people:

Family and Friends

Close family members, friends, and relatives who have supported the Scout throughout their journey are perfect candidates for receiving an announcement. Personalize the announcement and consider the preferences of the Scout regarding how public they want their achievement to be.

Troop Members

Current and former members of the Scout troop, including leaders and fellow Scouts, should definitely be informed. They have been part of the Scout's journey and will want to celebrate this significant milestone.

Community Leaders

Local government officials such as the mayor or city council members may recognize the achievement in a public forum. Including them in the announcement can help raise the profile of the Eagle Scout achievement and provide additional recognition.

Schools, Religious Leaders, and Local Media

Teachers, school administrators, and counselors who have played a role in the Scout's development, as well as religious leaders of any affiliated organizations, and local media like newspapers or community newsletters, can all be excellent recipients of the announcement. They have been influential in the Scout's life and growth.

Scouting Organizations and Friends from Other Troops

Local or regional Boy Scouts of America councils and alumni associations, as well as fellow Scouts from other troops, can also be included. They have a stake in the Scout's success and will be excited to congratulate the newest Eagle Scout.

Mentors and Coaches, Social Media

Individuals who have had a significant impact on the Scout's life outside of Scouting, such as mentors and coaches, should also receive the announcement. Sharing the news on personal social media accounts can help reach a broader audience.

Key Components to Send

There are three distinct pieces to send when an Eagle Scout is achieved:

1. Eagle Scout Announcement

This should be sent to everyone you and your Scout care about, especially those who would not otherwise know about it. Think of it as spreading very happy news. It is definitely NOT a request or expectation for gifts.

It's helpful for the Scout to sit down with the Scoutmaster to discuss as well as with family. Think about the Troop's established policy regarding announcements. Family, Charter Organization Representatives, Scouts, Scouters, not in your Troop, Merit Badge Counselors, and Neighbors should all be included in this category.

2. Eagle Scout Ceremony Invitations

Send these to everyone who has made an impact on your Scout and who you'd like to attend the Ceremony. This is typically a selection from those who received the Announcement.

3. Request for Presenters

Even if they're in your Scout's Troop, they should be formally invited to present an award such as the US Flag, State Flag, Eagle Letters, or other impressive ones.

Including local and state political representatives, fraternal and civic groups like the American Legion, DAR, SAR, Knights of Columbus, Masons, and others can enhance the recognition. For Scouts with a special interest, invite someone who represents that group. Logistical limitations such as time and capacity should be considered when formulating the request.

Sample Scenarios

It's important to recognize that the recognition of an Eagle Scout achievement can vary based on the Scoutmaster's approach. For example, some may be more formal, while others may be more casual. A close friend in another part of the country had a different experience. His son was the Troop's first Eagle in many years and was merely called up at a Troop meeting and handed his Eagle Medal. No one else in his family knew it was happening. In contrast, the Scoutmaster in your Council and in most treats the achievement as a significant milestone.

By carefully selecting and sending the appropriate announcements and invitations, you can ensure that the Eagle Scout achievement is celebrated and recognized by those who matter most.

Keywords: Eagle Scout, Scouting Achievement, Recognition and Celebration