Citizenship in Society Facilitator Training
Citizenship in Society is BSA's newest Merit Badge which will become a required merit badge on July 1, 2022. The new merit badge encourages Scouts to explore important topics around diversity, equity, inclusion, and ethical leadership and learn why these qualities are important in society and in Scouting.
Citizenship in Society is unlike any other merit badge that Scouting America offers. This is a facilitated discussion lead by the Merit Badge Facilitator (counselor) and the Scouts in the class. This is not a class taught by the Merit Badge Counselor. Facilitators are not experts in the field, they are openminded leaders who are willing to listen to the Scouts and keep the conversation safe and moving forward. This merit badge encourages Scouts to explore important topics around diversity, equity, inclusion, and ethical leadership and to learn why these qualities are important in society and in Scouting
The Atlanta Area Council has a committee to approve individuals wishing to facilitate this merit badge. Here are the steps to become an approved Citizenship in Society Merit Badge Facilitator.
1- Take the online DEI training that can be found at my.scouting.org
2- Fill out a new merit badge counselor form.
If you are already a MBC, the additional merit badge form is all you need.
If you are a new Merit Badge Counselor, please fill out a new registration form, you do not need to pay the fee again, just fill out the form with the new position.
3- Send your forms and DEI Training certificate to Silvia de la Cruz, the Atlanta Area Council's lead volunteer for Citizenship in Society. Sadelacruz01@gmail.com
BSA's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Mission & Vision Statements
To promote a culture where every youth, volunteer, and employee feels a sense of belonging and to build communities where every person feels respected and valued.
To partner with all families and communities in raising young people of high moral character, developing their leadership skills, and preparing them to serve and thrive in a world of increasing complexity and challenge.