Scouting is Strong in Metro-Atlanta

Scouting is strong in Atlanta, with more than 31,000 youth and 9,000 volunteer leaders. All local Scouting programs are continuing as usual. We remain as committed as ever to delivering a safe and impactful Scouting program in Metro-Atlanta.

On February 18, 2020 National BSA filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to achieve two key objectives: equitably compensate victims who were harmed during their time in Scouting and continue to carry out Scouting’s mission for years to come. This Chapter 11 financial reorganization is at the National level and does not involve the Atlanta Area Council. Our Scouting programs in the Atlanta Area Council will continue.

The entire Scouting community is outraged and saddened there have been instances when individuals participating in the Scouting program abused innocent children. 

Nothing is more important than the safety and protection of children.

  • Over many years, the BSA has developed some of the strongest expert-informed youth protection policies found in any youth-serving organization including mandatory criminal background checks for all leaders, required training in youth protection, mandatory reporting and two-deep leadership.
  • Every instance of suspected abuse is reported to law enforcement.
  • We are continually updating and sharing these best-in-class practices throughout our community.

Effect on the Atlanta Area Council, Boy Scouts of America

Decisions by National BSA will have no effect on Metro-Atlanta Scouting. Locally, you will see NO CHANGE in your local Scouting program all events and programs will continue. 

With new policies in place from mandatory background checks to two-deep leadership and more - children are extremely safe in Scouting. Our camps, our training and our mission to develop the next generation of leaders for Metro-Atlanta will continue. 

Key points you should know:

  • The Atlanta Area Council is a separate 501(c)3 operating as a financially separate organization.
  • Atlanta Area Council camps, Volunteer Service Center and finances are owned and controlled by the Atlanta Area Council. 
  • Friends of Scouting and other annual donations will continue to be used to pay for necessary day-to-day expenses to provide Scouting in our communities.
  • With your support, the Council will continue to deliver a safe and high-quality Scouting experience for more than 31,000 Scouts in Metro-Atlanta.

We want to assure you Scouting will continue throughout our nation and Scouting in Metro-Atlanta will continue with great strength. 

For additional information about National BSA’s Chapter 11 filing, the national organization has created a dedicated restructuring website at www.BSArestructuring.org.

For questions on Youth Protections, please contact our Youth Protection Team.