On Feb. 8, 2025, Boy Scouts of America adopted a new identity: Scouting America. This change represents more than just a name on letterhead; it reflects a broadening vision for a rapidly evolving organization with deep roots in American culture. But the path hasn't been without controversy or challenge. Here in Berks County, the Hawk Mountain Council now invites young people from more diverse backgrounds than ever before to learn leadership, build character and form lasting friendships. Against the backdrop of crackling fires and starry nights, we explore how our local Scouting community balances tradition with transformation, creating an organization that remains rock-solid amid shifting cultural tides—all while helping our youth discover their true north.

For an institution with roots stretching back more than a century, change doesn't always come easily. But the organization faced a sobering reality in recent decades—a significant drop in participation threatened the future of Scouting. National Leadership recognized that to remain relevant, they needed to broaden their reach and ensure their character-building programs were accessible to more young people.

This recognition led to watershed moments. In 2018, Cub Scouts opened its doors to girls, followed by the Scouts BSA program (formerly Boy Scouts) in 2019. Despite these changes, public awareness has lagged behind reality—approximately 75% of Americans still don't realize girls can participate in all Scouting activities.

The path toward LGBTQ inclusion has followed a similar trajectory of gradual change. After years of maintaining a ban on openly gay leaders and members—a stance upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in the late 1990s—Scouting America shifted toward allowing community partners to follow their own beliefs rather than imposing blanket restrictions. The organization now focuses on creating a welcoming environment where all Scouts can learn and grow together.

These changes haven't been without controversy. Some traditional supporters viewed them as departures from Scouting's heritage, while others saw them as long overdue. But through this evolution, the leadership of Hawk Mountain Council has maintained that these changes align perfectly with Scouting's fundamental mission of character development and leadership training.

"Part of leadership is also understanding good followership and how to work with folks who aren’t exactly like you," Fox explains. "Our young people need to learn how to work with and be led by diverse individuals, so that they can be more productive."

The reality on the ground, in troops and packs across Berks and Schuylkill counties, is that young people are learning valuable skills together, discovering that character, citizenship and outdoor skills transcend differences, creating common ground where young people can grow together.

When principles meet practicalities, thoughtful innovation becomes essential. As Hawk Mountain Council has welcomed a more diverse membership, it has reimagined operational aspects of its programs while preserving the fundamental scouting experience.

Consider the seemingly simple matter of camping arrangements. Traditionally, Scouts shared two-person tents—a practice dating back to when army surplus gear formed the backbone of Scouting equipment. Heavy canvas tents were once divided between two Scouts by necessity, with each carrying half.

"But by the time I was involved in scouting in the ’90s, those weren't the tents we were using anymore," Fox reflects. Today's lightweight equipment has created new possibilities. Many troops now opt for individual tents, eliminating concerns about tent partner accommodations while providing Scouts with greater independence.

Similarly, the council has refined practices around swimming and water activities to ensure a positive experience for all participants. Many troops have adopted a universal approach where all Scouts wear rash guards or t-shirts, ensuring age-appropriate, modest attire while also providing sun protection. Facility updates have also prioritized privacy and individual needs. Where older camps once featured large communal shower and restroom areas, newer designs incorporate private stalls and changing spaces, allowing all Scouts to focus on the adventure at hand with confidence and ease.

These practical adaptations extend to the visual representation of scouting as well. Program materials, handbooks and promotional materials now feature diverse images that help all young people see themselves in the scouting experience. The Scouts BSA handbook for girls, while containing identical requirements to the boys' version, features young women in its instructional images and uses appropriate pronouns throughout—recognition that representation matters.

The organization's digital transformation has also made leaps and bounds forward. Online resources, virtual meetings during challenging times and more easy-to-use registration systems have helped modernize the Scouting experience while making it more accessible to families with varying schedules and needs.

Through these operational changes, Hawk Mountain Council demonstrates that inclusion isn't just a philosophical stance—it's about creating new pathways for all young people to access the character-building experiences that have defined Scouting for generations.