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SCOUT EXECUTIVE'S MINUTE Dear Scouts: 
Recently there have been several major national news articles regarding youth protection issues, some even including Scouting. I want to take this opportunity to communicate what we are doing locally to address these challenges.First, the NWSC and BSA rely heavily on the actual recruitment process of our leaders. Unit-level local recommendations, multiple endorsement signatures for approval, multiple personal references, and complete information provided on all adult leader application forms for all new leaders is the best screening device to ensure selecting properly qualified leaders for Scouting. Be wary of individuals who want to volunteer their services, but do not want to go through the registration process! Second, all new leaders go through a computerized criminal background check as part of the registration process. This service is provided by ChoicePoint in Atlanta and is currently being paid for by the BSA at $6.50 per inquiry. Third, the Council Registrar processes new applications daily. When “hits” are uncovered through the criminal background check they are promptly brought to my attention for resolution. I personally review every application to discover why a particular application was flagged. I communicate directly with the unit’s key leaders and the chartered partner when there is a problem. Fourth, several churches and other chartered partners are now considering using youth protection standards similar to BSA for their own internal youth programs. I have discussed BSA standards with key church decision-makers of the Catholic, Lutheran, Presbyterian, and Methodist churches in the Chicago suburban area. Fifth, regarding youth protection training, every Scout leader should take or re-take this training at least once every other year so that they are updated on the absolute latest standards. Chartered partners may require Scouting volunteers to take their own training in addition to BSA training as one may not substitute for the other. Chartered partners who make this a requirement in their units are within their rights to do so. Sixth, annually as a staff, we review each part of the BSA’s Membership Validation Procedures. We strictly follow all steps of the process from start to finish. Seventh, just as a point of reference --- in my 29 years of career service with the BSA, of the thousand of volunteers I have worked with in seven councils, I have removed thirty people from being a Scouting volunteer. Only one has been for a youth protection issue. Others have been removed for assault and battery, breaking and entering, check kiting, theft by taking, theft by conversion, and (primarily) drug/alcohol abuse arrests. For the vast majority, (99+%) Scouting volunteers are GREAT people who give freely of their time, talents, treasure, and energy on behalf of youth. I just wanted you to know these facts so that you can be assured that locally we take our youth protection and membership issues VERY SERIOUSLY. Your efforts are truly appreciated! Stephen J. Taylor, CFRE Scout Executive Northwest Suburban Council |