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Tidewater Council Camporall 2026
Celebrate Tidewater's American Adventure!
April 17-19
Scouts get to experience a unique combination of Scouts BSA troop and Venturing crew camping fun, competition, challenges, and learning at the “Tidewater American Adventure” Camporall at Tidewater Council’s Awesome Pipsico Scout Reservation.
Fun and exciting activities are themed on significant eras of the history and unique traditions found only in the United States. This weekend event will also honor and participate in the national “America 250” celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The Camporall 2026 Committee is in high gear planning and executing the final program details. The full Leaders’ Guide is available here. Unit leaders will be invited to several informational Zoom calls to find out more about the event, how they can best prepare their Scouts and adult leaders for participation, and answer any questions they may have about the event.
Reserve your unit’s place in this memorable event. Registration is now open on Black Pug at scoutingevent.com/596-26Camporall.
Here’s a sampling of the program events already set for the event, along with their associated historical themes.
Plan on joining Scouts around the council for a unique Scouting experience involving fun, skill challenges, learning, and celebration of what makes the history and traditions of the United States and our area unique.
For more information, contact the Camporall 2026 Chair, Rick McIlrath ([email protected]) or the Program Chair, Dale Ward ([email protected]).
Don’t delay making memories for your unit youth; register now! Reserve your unit’s place on Black Pug at scoutingevent.com/596-26Camporall.
Calling all Scout and Scouter Musicians!
We want you for the Camporall Main Stage!
If you have a band or an act you would like to perform at the Council Camporall, contact Wes Sherman at [email protected] and let us know what you can do!
Upcoming Events
Winter Training Day
February 7
The Princess Anne District invites all Scouting America leaders, parents, and volunteers to a full day of high-impact training at Old Dominion University for Winter Training Day 2026. This year’s event brings together essential safety, leadership, Cub Scout, and trainer development courses designed to strengthen units, protect youth, and build confident, capable adult leaders.
Whether you are a brand-new volunteer or a seasoned Scouter, Winter Training Day gives you the tools, credentials, and confidence to better serve your Scouts and your unit.
A powerful lineup of instructor-led courses includes:
- Adult & Pediatric First Aid, CPR, and AED (additional fee applies for this nationally recognized certification)
- Cub Scout Rangemaster Training
- Den Chief Training
- New Member Coordinator Training
- Understanding and Preventing Youth-on-Youth Abuse
- Craft of Training (formerly Trainer’s EDGE)
Coin Collecting Merit Badge Program
February 7
Join the Tidewater Coin Club for a Coin Collecting merit badge program! The merit badge workshop will be held at the Virginia Beach Coin Show at the Virginia Beach Convention Center on Saturday, February 7 from 10 AM – noon.
Advanced registration is required; please contact Fran Ryan at [email protected] or Eddie DeVault at [email protected] to reserve a spot.
Silver Beaver Award Nomination Deadline
February 7
To nominate a worthy Scouter, please submit the nomination form to Silver Beaver Committee Chair Steven Smith at [email protected] and staff advisor Alison Harrison at [email protected].
Learn about Tidewater Council’s three most recent Silver Beaver recipients:
Albemarle District Freezoree
RESCHEDULED: New Date Due to Winter Weather
February 20-22
Many Scouts have gone to camp before, but this camp will be truly unique.
Prepare to be transported to the 1600s during the early settlement of the Carolinas. A decree has been issued:
It is hereby decreed that all the clans (troops, posts, crews, and ships) within the lands held by Lord Proprietor of the Carolinas and Commander and Chief of Scotland, George Monck, the 1st Duke of Albemarle (the area of Albemarle District) shall present all their able-bodied youth for testing of athletic prowess and skill at the Albemarle District Highland Games. Clans of the Tidewater region in the Colony of Virginia are duly invited. The games will be held at the Encampment of Dinkerderry in Tyner in the County of Chowan within the Province of Carolina.
The events shall include the Haggis Hurl, Tug O’ War, Welly Tossing, Raiding Ladder Build, Sheaf Toss, and Maide-leisg. Clans are encouraged to adopt a tartan and wear it to all events. Tastefully worn kilts are highly encouraged.
The winner of the Games shall receive the coveted Crystal Thistle award.
Due to weather concerns, the Albemarle District Freezoree has been rescheduled to February 20-22. Registration has been re-opened. If you missed the initial registration, now is the time to sign up for your Highland Games adventure!
Three Rivers District Freeze-O-Ree
February 20-22
The Three Rivers District Freeze-O-Ree at Camp Moonyah will offer a refreshing weekend in the woods with fellow units, filled with fellowship, fun, and adventure. This event is an excellent opportunity for Scouts to practice outdoor skills and complete advancement requirements in a relaxed, supportive setting.
The E-River and Merrimac Chapters of the Order of the Arrow, Blue Heron Lodge will host engaging training sessions and lead a meaningful service project — an easy way for Scouts to earn much-needed service hours. On Saturday night, don’t miss the special Call Out ceremony recognizing newly elected Order of the Arrow Scouts, a memorable highlight of the weekend.
Scouting for Food
February 21 - March 1
Did you know that food banks are struggling to meet the daily demand? Did you know that 1 in 8 of your neighbors need help making ends meet? Did you know that, in some areas, 1 in 3 children are going to bed hungry?
Scouts can make a difference! Please sign up your unit for the Scouting for Food – Feed Your Neighbor Campaign.
The plan is simple:
- Sign up to participate.
- Distribute the provided collection bags and/or doorhangers.
- Pick up donated items.
- Deliver donated items to either the council office or the food pantry of your choice.
- Report your results.
Please help those who are in need in our community. Registration is open today at 247scouting.com/forms/596-SFF2026.
New Recognition Item!
Thanks to generous support from the Chesapeake Rotary Foundation, Tidewater Council is introducing a new recognition item for the 2026 Scouting for Food drive!
Scouts who collect 25 or more canned food items during the 2026 Scouting for Food drive will earn a limited-edition food drive pin! (While supplies last.) See the Food Drive Challenge Flyer for more details.
Top Unit Incentive!
With support from a generous anonymous donor, the unit collecting the most nonperishable food items during the 2026 Scouting for Food drive will receive a $250 gift certificate for the Tidewater Council Scout Shop.
Units must report their results by March 16, 2026 in order to receive recognition items.
Camp Cards Training
February 26
The 2026 Camp Card Sale is coming soon to help Scouts earn their way to the adventures of Scouting!
Camp Cards are cards that offer valuable discounts to local retailers. Scouts sell the cards to family, friends, neighbors, and community members. Units earn a sales commission, which they can use to pay for camping adventures.
To Be Prepared for the sale, each unit is requested to send a representative to a training session on February 26 at 6:30 PM. The training will be offered both in-person at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center, 1032 Heatherwood Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455 and virtually via Zoom.
For those attending in-person, the Camp Cards are expected to be available for pick-up at the training.
For those attending virtually, the Zoom credentials are:
Time: Feb 26, 2026 06:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85819293387?pwd=2S86xLmTRkbPxjQ7rXah9AX2T43xHa.1
Meeting ID: 858 1929 3387
Passcode: campcard
Virginia Beach Trade-O-Ree
February 27-28
Scouting collectibles rock!
Trade, buy, sell, or browse all types of collectible Scouting items. The Trade-O-Ree will be held at the Church of the Ascension Community Center in Virginia Beach. Check out the vendor flyer for information on table rates, or come to browse and shop with free admission.
Collections Merit Badge
Earn the Collections Merit Badge at the Trade-O-Ree!
Contact Chip at [email protected] for more information. Complete this form and bring it to the merit badge counselor.
Princess Anne District Awards Breakfast
February 28
The Princess Anne District Awards Breakfast is held each year to recognize volunteers of Princess Anne District. Come out to celebrate outstanding unit and district volunteers!
Join the district for breakfast, fun, and fellowship on February 28. Tickets are now available on Black Pug. Registration closes February 20.
Have fun with fellow leaders and celebrate Princess Anne’s year of success!
VFW Scout of the Year Submission Deadline
March 1
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Scout of the Year program recognizes Scouts for their standout citizenship, patriotism, and love of country.
The award recognizes individuals who have risen above their peers in exemplifying the qualities of the highest youth Scouting ranks. For members of Scouting America, those awards are Eagle Scout (Scouts BSA), Summit Award (Venturing), and Quartermaster (Sea Scouting). Recipients can be awarded scholarships at both the local and national levels.
The deadline to submit entries to a local VFW Post is March 1, 2026. Before submitting your Scout of the Year application, please review the rules and eligibility requirements. The brochure and entry form can be found here.
For more information or to request a VFW representative to visit a troop meeting, please contact Sue Sowers,
Scholarship Chairperson for VFW Post 392, at [email protected].
Local VFW Posts
Entries for these awards should be submitted to a local VFW Post. For more information, please call your local VFW Post.
Posts in the Tidewater Council area include:
- Post 10950 Outer Banks Post in Nags Head, NC
- Post 7312 Gates County Memorial Post in Gatesville, NC
- Post 6060 William Clarence Jackson Post in Elizabeth City, NC
- Post 4809 Tidewater Post in Norfolk, VA
- Post 3160 Ocean View Post in Norfolk, VA
- Post 2894 SSG Jonathan K. Dozier Memorial Post in Chesapeake, VA
- Post 1211 Back Bay Post in Virginia Beach, VA
- Post 392 General MacArthur Memorial Post in Virginia Beach, VA
University of Scouting
March 6-7
Scouting is a Game with a Purpose
All Scouts, prospective Scouts, leaders, parents, and volunteers are invited to attend the Tidewater University of Scouting at Old Dominion University.
This jamboree-style event offers interactive trainings and certifications, hands-on activities and adventures, merit badges and advancement opportunities, and personalized Scout quests to earn prizes and rewards.
Class schedules have been posted at scoutingevent.com/596-UOS2026.
Adult College
Earn your degree or your doctorate while studying Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA, and Older Youth Programs. Expand your knowledge with Continuing Education in First Aid/CPR/AED, Cooking, Scouting Heritage, Event Planning, Unit Management, Scouting Tools and Technology, Recruiting, Fundraising, and more. If you have attended University of Scouting three or more times, this is the year to start your Doctoral Program.
Youth Academies
- Youth Leader Academy is the perfect place to expand your leadership skills. Opportunities include Event Planning, Running Efficient Meetings, Time Management, Project Management, Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops (ILST), Introduction to Leadership Skills for Ships/Crews (ILS/C), and more.
- Huskanaw Academy is a chance for new Scouts BSA members to master their Scoutcraft requirements for Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class.
- Merit Badge Academy offers a range of badges including several required for Eagle Scout.
Junior Academies
- Dragon Academy will entertain Lions, Tigers, and younger siblings for a fun-filled day of adventure.
- Akela’s Academy welcomes Wolf, Bear, and Webelos Scouts for fun adventures while working on advancements. Arrow of Light Scouts should participate in the Youth Academy.
- Adventure Academy offers Cub Scouts a chance to complete elective adventures.
Midway
- Take learning beyond the classroom with our community partners and vendors.
- Visit the Tidewater University Trading Post for limited edition swag, including t-shirts, sweatshirts, patches, neckerchiefs, stickers, and more.
- Earn prizes and rewards by completing activity quests in Scoutcraft, Tidewater adventures, Scouting adventures, Duty to God, STEM, pioneering, international, outdoor ethics, community service, cooking, escape rooms, simulations, disability awareness, and more.
- Take a break to enjoy games, puzzles, and challenges.
Location and Partners
- Alpha Phi Omega is sponsoring the event on campus at Old Dominion University.
- Lunch will be provided at the Broderick Dining Commons by Monarch Dining.
- There will be other activities on campus, including a university Open House.
Schedule
- Friday, March 6, 2026 @ 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday, March 7, 2026 @ 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Annual Leadership Breakfast
March 17
Save the date for Tidewater Council’s Annual Leadership Breakfast. The event honors and supports the efforts of thousands of volunteers who provide a quality, year-round Scouting program to youth in South Hampton Roads Virginia and Northeastern North Carolina. All proceeds benefit Scouting America Tidewater Council.
To learn more about how you, your company, or your community group can host a table at the Annual Leadership Breakfast, please contact Christy Cooper at [email protected].
Princess Anne District Pinewood Derby®
March 21
Registration is now open for the Princess Anne District Pinewood Derby!
Each Princess Anne Cub Scout pack’s top three winners from each rank are eligible to compete in the District Championship race. Arrow of Light Scouts (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible.
The district races will use the 2026 Tidewater Council Pinewood Derby Rules & Procedures.
2026 Tidewater Council Living Legends Nominations Due
March 27
Nominations are now open for 2026 Tidewater Council Living Legends.
Each year, Tidewater Council recognizes those volunteers who continue to provide significant leadership, service, and support to Scouting over many years and in many roles, and who continue serving after they may have been recognized in other traditional ways (Silver Beaver, Award of Merit, etc.). Help acknowledge those volunteers for their continued contributions before their council peers at the Tidewater Council Annual Recognition Banquet. Provide inspiration for others to also continue their valued service to Scouting.
Nomination forms must be received no later than Friday, March 27, 2026 to be considered. Submittal instructions can be found on the Living Legends 2026 Nomination Form.
Three Rivers District Pinewood Derby®
March 28
The Pinewood Derby is the perfect combination of cars, competition, STEM exploration, and character-building fun.
Get ready to race at the Three Rivers District Pinewood Derby on Saturday, March 28 at Portsmouth Catholic Regional School! The top three finishers of each den, from every pack in Three Rivers District, are eligible to race. Arrows of Light (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible.
- 8:00 AM: Pits open for check-in
- 9:45 AM: Opening Ceremony
- 10:00 AM: Races start
All cars must be turned in to the impound lot by 9:00 AM on the day of the race. Cars may be turned in prior to race day. Please refer to the 2026 Pinewood Derby “Driver’s License” for a list of these dates, times, and locations. No cars will be accepted after 9:00 AM on race day!
VFW Auxiliary Creative Patriotic Art Contest Deadline
March 31
The VFW National Auxiliary recognizes young artists (grades 9-12) and encourages patriotism in youth with the Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest. National scholarships are awarded to the winners.
The information below has been shared on behalf of Veterans of Foreign Wars and Auxiliary, Post 392, which serves the Virginia Beach area. Not all VFW Auxiliaries participate in this contest. If you are located in another part of the council, please contact your local VFW Post for submission information.
Young artists may submit entries in the two-dimensional art category, three-dimensional art category, or both. If a student submits entries for both categories, they must complete a separate entry form for each submission.
More Information
- VFW Auxiliary Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest Webpage
- Brochure
- Information Sheet and Entry Form for Two-Dimensional Art
- Information Sheet and Entry Form for Three-Dimensional Art
- For more information or to request a VFW representative to visit a troop meeting, please contact Sue Sowers,
Scholarship Chairperson for VFW Post 392, at [email protected].
Council Banquet
April 29
Get your tickets now for the Council Banquet! Join the families and leaders of Tidewater Council to celebrate a great Scouting year in 2025.
Some of the highlights of the evening will be:
- 2025 Class of Eagle Scouts
- 2025 Silver Beaver Awards
- NESA Outstanding Eagle Scout Awards
- And much more!
Join us on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at 6 PM (check-in begins at 5:15 PM) at the Khedive Shrine Center in Chesapeake.
Wood Badge
May 1-3 and May 30-31
Wood Badge is the premier, global training for Scout leaders. It’s a course for enhancing leadership skills, for learning about team development, for networking, for personal growth and development, all rolled into two fun-filled weekends of camping and Scouting.
Whether you’re completely new to Scouting or you’ve been a member for decades, Wood Badge is for you. “The Expert in Anything was Once a Beginner.”
Join us at awesome Pipsico Scout Reservation, where we will walk through the journey of a Scout, from Cub Scouting to Scouts BSA to Venturing, Sea Scouting, and Exploring. Explore ways you can enhance the Scouting program for today’s youth and beyond.
Learn More
- Wood Badge Video (Watch on Facebook)
- Wood Badge Pre-Course Orientation
- First, log in to My.Scouting.org.
- Then, navigate to training.scouting.org/courses/SCO_12017 to access the orientation.
Registration
- Register online through Black Pug.
- Payment is self-paced, and a $50.00 deposit will hold your place.
- Full payment must be submitted by March 31, 2026.
- Scholarships are available. Scholarship applications must be submitted by February 27, 2026. Scholarship forms and instructions are available on the Black Pug registration page.
Contact
For questions, reach out to 2026 Wood Badge Course Director Tom Conter at [email protected].
Pipsico Scout Reservation Summer Camp
June-July
Pipsico Scout Reservation offers a wide variety of activities and programs that enable Scouts to earn awards while having fun!
Facilities include a 40-foot climbing and rappelling tower, air conditioned dining hall, swimming pool with ramp access for those with mobility needs, recently-renovated aquatics center, fully equipped health lodge, trading post, ranges for range and target activities, and more.
All Pipsico programs and facilities are Nationally Accredited.
What are you waiting for? Sign up for Summer Camp 2026 today and get ready for an awesome camping experience, at a beautiful property, with a friendly camp staff!
Week 1: June 21 – June 27
Week 2: June 28 – July 4
Week 3: July 5 – July 11
Week 4: July 12 – July 18
National Scout Jamboree
July 22-31
Get ready for the ultimate Scouting experience! The 2026 National Scout Jamboree, being held from July 22-31, 2026 at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia, is more than just an event—it is a high-adventure, memory-making, confidence-building journey that your Scout will never forget.
Picture thousands of Scouts from across the country coming together for ten action-packed days of ziplining, mountain biking, rock climbing, water sports, skateboarding, fishing, patch trading, leadership development, and lifelong friendships.
The National Scout Jamboree is a chance for Scouts to grow, explore, and connect in a way that only Scouting can offer. Whether they are looking for adrenaline-pumping adventure or a deeper connection to the Scouting movement, the Jamboree delivers.
Do not miss this incredible opportunity to be part of something big. Spots are filling quickly—learn how your Scout can be part of the excitement by visiting TidewaterBSA.com/jamboree. Sign up today!
2026 National Jamboree Staff Band
The 2026 National Jamboree Band is actively seeking talented musicians to join its full-time staff ensemble. Composed entirely of registered Scouts and Scouters, the band provides musical support for ceremonies, special events, concerts, and entertainment throughout the National Jamboree for thousands of attendees.
Seeking
- Registered Scouts and Scouters with musical experience
- All instrument positions available, including drumline
- Repertoire includes popular music, patriotic selections, marches, and pep band favorites
Eligibility
- Young adult staff: Ages 16-29
- Adult staff: Ages 30+ (Applications welcome, though initial preference given to youth staff)
How to Apply
- Visit: jamboreeband.colbsa.net
- Email Director George Pinchock at [email protected]
Join an unforgettable experience combining a love of music with the adventure of the National Jamboree!
World Scout Jamboree
July 30 - August 8, 2027
The World Scout Jamboree is held every four years around the world. The next Jamboree will be held in Gdansk, Poland in the summer of 2027 and will have approximately 45,000 Scouts and leaders from over 140 countries in attendance.
Age Requirements
- Participants must be between the ages of 14-17 at the start of the Jamboree on July 30, 2027.
- Those over 17 at the start of the Jamboree can apply to be a unit leader or on staff.
- Those under age 14 are not eligible to attend the 2027 World Scout Jamboree. Save the date for the 2031 World Scout Jamboree in Denmark!
For More Information
- World Scout Jamboree website: jamboree2027.org
- US Contingent website: wsj2027.us
News
Scouting Safety Moment
It is recommended to include a Scouting Safety Moment during meetings to inform Scouts and parents and keep everyone safe. Numerous Scouting Safety Moments are available here.
Winter Activity Safety
There is magic to camping in winter. It is one of the most challenging outdoor adventures. However, potentially extreme weather conditions, cold temperatures, and unique hazards associated with outdoor winter activities require careful planning to ensure safety.
SAME STEM Camps
The Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) offers week-long summer STEM/Engineering & Construction Camps for eligible high school students (at least 15 years old).
Led by industry professionals and other volunteers from the military and engineering community, the SAME Camps are a hands-on opportunity for students with interest in STEM fields, including science, engineering, and construction, as well as technology and the environment, to work together in teams and chart a course for future education and leadership. Industry leaders from engineering firms, IT companies, and technical military units are present to teach hands-on skills and explore current technologies such as 3D printing, drones, construction challenges, and competitions. The camps also include social events, field trips to local attractions, and real-world ongoing projects.
The Hampton Roads Post of the Society of American Military Engineers is offering sponsorships for up to twenty local students to attend a camp, including both the camp registration fee and reasonable travel expenses. As a fully sponsored activity, reimbursed by local engineering and IT firms, this is a not to miss opportunity!
Learn new skills, build your resume, and make contacts with executives and STEM professionals for future college scholarships and mentorship. Invite your friends and apply today! The application deadline is March 11, 2026.
For more information, check out the flyer or visit same.org/camps.
Scout Shop
2026: New Year - New Store
The Tidewater Council Scout Shop has undergone a huge reorganization. There is a new layout and everything is in a new location in our shop. This has allowed us to prepare for the new merchandise coming this year and make things easier on customers trying to find items. Come on in and check it out!
Scouting America Tidewater Council Polos
New Scouting America Tidewater Council polos are now available for purchase in the store! Both ladies’ and men’s shirts are available in sizes small to 4XL, in three color options each.
For the gentleman, color options are Carolina Blue, Slate Grey, and Burgundy.
For the ladies, color options are Purple, Slate Grey and Deep Berry.
The new polo shirts are a light weight cotton blend that are great for year-round wear and affordable at only $25 each. Keep an eye out for other new Tidewater Council merchandise this year.
New Unified Handbook
The new unified Scouts BSA handbook is available for purchase in the Tidewater Council Scout Shop. This book replaces the separate male and female handbooks, but remains identical in content. Stop in and grab your copy.
Scout Shop Winter Hours
December 2025 – February 2026
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Now Hiring
Summer Camp Staff Opportunities
Join the team at Pipsico Scout Reservation!
Are you ready to make a difference next summer and create unforgettable experiences for Scouts and fellow staff members? Pipsico Scout Reservation is looking for enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join our team! Whether you’re passionate about outdoor education, adventure programming, or supporting behind the scenes, we have a role for you.
Positions Available
- Program Director
- Camp Commissioners
- Area Directors: Huskanaw, Aquatics, Waterfront, Pool, Nature, Scout Craft, Heritage, Handicraft, Shooting Sports, Climbing, Trading Post, PEX High Adventure Program
- Dining Hall Manager
- Medic/Health and Safety Officer
- Program Staff
- Kitchen Crew
- Camp Counselors
- Administrative Support
Why Work at Pipsico?
- Gain valuable leadership and teamwork skills.
- Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while making lasting memories.
- Be part of a vibrant and supportive Scouting community.
Don’t wait—applications are open and positions are filling fast!
ScoutReach Program Aide
Tidewater Council is seeking an enthusiastic, dependable, part-time ScoutReach Program Aide to help deliver engaging afterschool Scouting programs to youth in Portsmouth and Norfolk public schools. This role plays a vital part in ensuring that children in underserved communities experience the fun, leadership development, and values that Scouting offers.
Programs are held Monday through Wednesday from 3-6 PM, with occasional weekend outings. Flexible scheduling may be available. Applicants must be over 18, and a Scouting background is preferred.
2026 Pinewood Derby® Rules
Cub Scout families, are you ready to build your Pinewood Derby car? The rules and inspection sheet for 2026 Pinewood Derbies are now available.
All Tidewater Council district races and the council derby will use the official Tidewater Council Pinewood Derby Rules & Procedures and the TWC Pinewood Derby Car Inspection Form.
Development Corner
Friends of Scouting
Friends of Scouting is Tidewater Council’s annual giving campaign. The generosity of Scouting families, alumni, and community supporters keeps the overall cost of Scouting affordable so all families can participate. Tidewater Council’s goal is to raise $550,000 through Friends of Scouting in 2026.
Has your unit scheduled its 2026 Friends of Scouting presentation? It is a great opportunity to hear about some of the council’s highlights and accomplishments over the past year, and to illustrate to families how the program is funded. All units that hold a Friends of Scouting presentation will receive a special ribbon for their unit flag. Contact your district executive to schedule your presentation.
United Way Donor Designations
Tidewater Council is a partner agency with United Way of South Hampton Roads and Albemarle Area United Way. Did you know that you can designate a United Way gift to local Scouting?
- For United Way of South Hampton Roads, you can designate your gift to support Scouting America Tidewater Council.
- For Albemarle Area United Way, you can designate your gift to support Scouting America Tidewater Council (4004).
Leave a Legacy: James E. West Fellowship Award
The James E. West Fellowship Award is a national recognition for individuals who contribute $1,000 or more in cash or securities to the Tidewater Council endowment fund. This contribution is in addition to, and does not diminish or replace, the donor’s annual gift to the council’s Friends of Scouting campaign.
Organizations or individuals may contribute an award in honor of someone — an Eagle Scout, a Silver Beaver recipient, Living Legend, or any outstanding Scout or Scouter.
Program Ideas
February
- National River Day: February 2
- Learn about the Scouting for Clean Waterways conservation initiative.
- Take a riverside hike.
- Organize a river cleanup.
- Discuss sustainable water choices with Scouts.
- Scouting America’s Birthday: February 8
- Offical papers establishing the Boy Scouts of America were signed on February 8, 1910 – the date now celebrated as the birthday of Scouting America. Celebrate 116 years of Scouting!
- Share some of Scouting America’s early history with Scouts:
- A Scout is Reverent
- Each February, around the time of Scouting America’s birthday, Scouts around the country focus on the 12th point of the Scout Law: reverent. Through celebrations that can be either inter-religious or specific to a particular faith, Scouts can reflect on faith. Every unit can celebrate these days as they choose — some opt to attend a worship service wearing a full field uniform, participate in a worship service, or conduct a service project for a religious organization.
- Scout Jumuah (Islam) is February 5-6, 2026.
- Scout Shabbat (Judaism) is February 6-7, 2026.
- Scout Sunday (Christianity) is February 8, 2026. However, units and chartered organizations are free to schedule their Scout Sunday on any Sunday in February.
- Scouting for Food: February 22 – March 1
- Conduct a Scouting for Food drive to support neighbors in need. Sign up to participate at 247scouting.com/forms/596-SFF2026 and visit TidewaterBSA.com/scouting-for-food for more information.
- International Stand Up to Bullying Day: February 27
- The idea that a Scout should treat others as they want to be treated—a Scout is kind—is woven throughout the programs and literature of Scouting America. When a Scout follows the principles of the Scout Oath and Scout Law, bullying and hazing situations should never occur.
- Have youth watch the age and rank-appropriate Personal Safety Awareness videos.
- Review and share Scouting America’s Bullying Awareness resources with Scouts and families.
- For adults, take Safeguarding Youth Training.
- Review Scouting America’s Social Media Guidelines for valuable information on internet safety and safeguarding youth when using social media.
March
- National Nutrition Month
- Work on personal fitness and nutrition-related advancement curriculum:
- Read Across America Day: March 2
- Work on the Reading merit badge.
- Visit a local library.
- Pick up a copy of Scout Life.
- National Anthem Day: March 3
- Work on the American Heritage merit badge (requirement 3b).
- National Dentists Day: March 6
- Work on the Dentistry merit badge.
- National Napping Day: March 9
- Share the Nap On Safely Safety Moment at a unit meeting.
- Popcorn Lover’s Day: March 12
- Say thank you to the Unit Popcorn Kernel.
- Plan the unit’s sales strategy for the 2026 Popcorn Sale.
- Have Scouts role play sales techniques.
- Enjoy a popcorn snack!
- International Day of Forests: March 21
- Plant a tree.
- Go on a forest hike.
- Work on the Forestry merit badge.
- Walk in the Sand Day: March 21
- Go for a hike on the beach.
- World Theatre Day: March 27
- Visit a local theater.
- Work on the Theater merit badge.
Community Engagement
Community Care Assistance
Does your family need assistance accessing community resources? Tidewater Council is a partner agency with United Way of South Hampton Roads and Albemarle Area United Way, as well as a member of the Unite Us Hampton Roads United Coordinated Network and NCCARE360. For coordinated care referrals, please contact us. You may also visit NC 211 or 2-1-1 Virginia for assistance finding resources.
Volunteer Opportunities
Visit our Volunteer with Local Scouting webpage for information on additional volunteer opportunities.
Scouts in Action
Scouting in the News
- “Local Scouts Donate Popcorn to Area Military Personnel” in the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Member News, January 21, 2026
- “Norfolk Southern Hampton Roads Community Fund Awards Grant to Scouting America Tidewater Council” in the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Member News, January 21, 2026
We want to hear from you! Send stories, photos, and videos of your Scouts in action to [email protected] (with parental permission, of course).