Generators

Portable generators are a common tool when temporary or remote power is needed. In Scouting, these could be used at large district or council events, or at summer or winter camps. Generators can be incredibly helpful, but do have some inherent dangers. Always consult and follow the manufacturer instructions or user manuals for your portable generator. You should also be aware of the most common hazards associated with portable generator use.



[Scout Safety Moment]

The HOVC.org Website Is Back Up

After several days of unexpected downtime, we are pleased to share that the Heart of Virginia Council website has been restored! We thank you for your patience as we worked to resolve this issue.

[Visit HOVC.org]

🚨 Glenn A. & Melinda W. Adams Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award (ESSPY) 🚨

The ESSPY Award recognizes a service project of an exceptional nature by a Scout to a religious institution, a school, community, or other entity. Each year, local councils select a council-level winner, and from that pool, each service territory selects a territory-level winner. A national winner is then selected from the 16 territory finalists. Nominations are due TODAY, January 31st, 2025.

[Learn More and Make an ESSPY Nomination]

Closed for President's Day

February 17th

The Leadership Center and Scout Shop will be CLOSED on February 17th in observance of the President's Day holiday! On President’s Day, we honor the legacy of great American leaders, many of whom embodied the values of Scouts BSA. Gerald Ford, the 38th President of the United States, was the first and only Eagle Scout to serve as president, exemplifying the dedication, leadership, and service that Scouting instills. Presidents like Theodore Roosevelt, a champion of conservation, and John F. Kennedy, who encouraged civic engagement, also reflected the Scout Oath and Law in action. Today, Scouts continue to lead with integrity, service, and patriotism, following in the footsteps of these great leaders.

The Camp Card Sale is Open for Pre-Orders!

Looking for an easy fundraising opportunity? Camp Cards are a great way to raise dollars for your unit and can also be used to provide the necessary funds needed for summer and fall camping programs! Scouts will "clean-up" this year as we are excited to have Flagstop Car Wash join our Camp Card program and offer a FREE Ultimate Car Wash on each card (stay tuned for details)!

After a successful 2024 Camp Card fundraiser, the Product Sale Committee of the Heart of Virginia Council will continue the $10 Camp Card for 2025. There are 4 big reasons the $10 card was successful…

[Read All About It & Register]

Friends of Scouting Dinner with Mike Massimino

April 8th

The Friends of Scouting Dinner, presented by Pike Electric and Burford's Construction, is the Council’s primary means to raise the funds needed to support and grow Scout programs for nearly 9,100 Scouts and adult volunteers across 24 counties and 4 cities in Central Virginia. This year, we are thrilled to be joined by our keynote speaker, Mike Massimino. Mike is a New York Times bestselling author who served as a NASA Astronaut from 1996 to 2014. You might recognize him from the Big Bang Theory!

[Read More About It]

Scouts Trash the Trash Day

May 3rd

Scouts Trash the Trash Day is a global Messengers of Peace initiative where Scouts and their friends or family clean up at least 2.2 pounds of trash on Saturday, May 3rd. Inspired by Troop 1206 in Helena, Montana, this event unites Scouts worldwide in a shared day of service, similar to Jamboree on the Air and Jamboree on the Trail. Beyond environmental impact, it showcases Scouting’s values, raises awareness, and encourages new members to join the movement.

[Sign Up to Participate]

Explore a Dental Career

Next Meeting: February 5th

The Heart of Virginia Council, in partnership with Virginia Family Dentistry, invites high school students (ages 14-20) to participate in an exciting 8-week Dental Career Exploration Program. This program provides a comprehensive introduction to the dental field through interactive activities, allowing students to explore the various aspects of dentistry. Participants will explore patient care, dental technologies, and other key areas of the profession, helping them decide if dentistry is the right career path.

[You Know the Drill... Register Here]

Now Hiring Our Summer Camp Staff

We have numerous employment openings at our Summer Camps at both T. Brady Saunders and Cub Adventure Camp, and our Cub Scout Day Camps. Paid and internship opportunities are available for applicants 16 years of age and older.

Openings include:

Kitchen & Dining Staff

Aquatics Staff

Program Staff

Shooting Sports Staff... and more!

[Learn More & Apply]

National Catholic Committee on Scouting Scholarship

The National Catholic Committee on Scouting (NCCS) awards thirteen scholarships totaling $36,000 each year. High school seniors, don’t wait until the last minute, apply for an NCCS College Scholarship now. Remember: 4 letters of recommendation must be submitted at the same time you submit the scholarship application. Please give your recommenders enough time to write their letters. The deadline for both the application and the letters of recommendation is March 1st. 

[Learn More & Apply]

'Fresh Views of the American Revolution' Student Artist Submissions

Deadline March 14th

The Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation is excited to announce that it is accepting submissions from Virginia student artists in grades 7-12 for display in an upcoming special exhibition, "Fresh Views of the American Revolution," opening at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown in October 2025. There is no submission fee for artists, and if accepted to the exhibit, students will be given a $100 honorarium for participation in the exhibition.

[Learn More]

Scouting America Unveils New Medals for the Distinguished Conservation Service Award

Conservation and the Scouts have been partners for a long time. Camping, hiking, and respect for the outdoors are a part of the Scouting heritage. Many of the requirements for advancement from Tenderfoot through the Eagle Scout rank call for an increasing awareness and understanding of the natural sciences. Many former Scouts have become leaders in conserving our environment and protecting it from damage. Right now, Scouts are involved in learning about environmental problems and actively working to make a difference.

[View the Video!]

Polish Your Pinewood Derby Car's Axles and Wheels

Polishing your Pinewood Derby car's axles and wheels is crucial for maximizing speed. There are a few steps you can take to help you achieve a smooth finish:

1. Select Straight Axles
2. Remove Imperfections
3. Polish Components
4. Ensure Proper Alignment
5. Lubricate with Graphite

Visit the Scout Shop for kits and accessories!

[Read More at ScoutLife.org]

Have You Visited the Cub Hub Lately?

Did you know we've developed an expertly curated collection of materials to make the job of a Cub Scout leader a little easier? The Cub Scout Required & Elective Adventures Hub (aka: The Cub Hub) organizes each adventure by its focus, and provides supporting materials, supplements, and additional resources. We're also proud to house materials developed BY our volunteers FOR our volunteers, like downloadable and customizable Den Adventure Plans and Rank Tracker Sheets, brand-new "unofficial" Den Leader Guides, and more!

[Get Your Leader Helps!]

🤠 Cub Scout Summer Camp Registration OPEN!

Return to the Old West

Are you thinking warm thoughts? Snow might be on the ground, but we have summer on the brain! Registration for Cub Scout Summer Camp is officially open! Choose from our four sessions and go back - way back - to the Old West. This year’s “Back to the Old West” theme will transport Scouts to a dusty frontier town where the stakes are higher than ever. Joined by the intrepid time travelers Lady Clementine and Lord Marmaduke, campers will unravel a thrilling mystery that could reshape the future.

[Register Your Unit Today!]

Cub Chat Live, 3pm on Fridays

Each Friday at 3pm Eastern, Scouting Magazine hosts Cub Chat Live broadcasts on Facebook and YouTube. Each week, they talk about useful tips, tricks and ideas that help your den or Pack!

January 31: Celebrating Scout Sunday, Sabbath, or Jumuah

February 7: What are your best award ceremonies and presentations?

Did you miss the January 24th broadcast? Use the link below to watch the latest episode about the Cold Weather Activities & Gear.

[Tune In to Cub Chat Live]

Customized Weekend Experiences

As you plan your program year, now is the perfect time to consider booking a customized Weekend Experience at the Heart of Virginia Council Scout Reservation. Craft adventures around the activities your Scouts enjoy the most, like camping, fishing, range & target sports, climbing, boating, sports, and more!

[Plan Your Weekend Experience]

⚜️ Summer Camp 2025

Camp Is Filling Up FAST - Don't Miss Out!

Summer Camp registrations for Camp T. Brady Saunders are rolling in! We are offering 4 weeks of Scouts BSA Summer Camp. Here is the status on each week:

• Week 1, June 15-21, is about half full.
• Week 2, June 22-28, is 100% sold out.
• Week 3, July 6-12, is about 2/3 full.
• Week 4, July 13-19, is about half full.

If you’re planning to attend Camp T. Brady Saunders this summer and haven’t yet signed up, we strongly encourage you to do so to nail down your desired week.

[Go to Summer Camp!]

Merit Badge Updates

Became Effective January 1st

Scouts BSA is excited to share the planned updates to Merit Badges that took effect on January 1, 2025. These updates have been reflected in Scoutbook and on the online Merit Badge Hub (https://www.scouting.org/skills/merit-badges/). Merit Badge Counselors should review the "Merit Badge Requirements Update file" linked on the page below.

[Learn More]

Winterfest for Explorers, Venturers and Sea Scouts

February 7th—9th

Winterfest is an exciting, fun-filled, and competitive event for Explorers, Venturers, Sea Scouts & older youth registered in Scouts BSA troops. Winterfest is an action-packed 2-day event filled with competitions, aquatic and STEM events, shooting sports, climbing, sports tournaments and more! Many events are related to various career fields such as Fire Service, Law Enforcement, and EMS.

[Learn More About Winterfest]

CVOC Orienteering Day at Camp T. Brady Saunders

February 16th

Join the Central Virginia Orienteering Club (CVOC) for an exciting orienteering event at Camp T. Brady Saunders, a fantastic area featuring a detailed forest landscape and a complex trail network. Choose between a beginner-friendly 2.6 km White Course or test your skills on the Score-O course with a two-hour time limit. Pre-registration is required by Friday, February 14th at noon—secure your map today and get ready for an adventure!

[Register Today!]

Race Through Space, 2025 HOVC Klondike Derby February 28th—March 2nd

The tradition of the Klondike Derby continues, hosted this year by Troop 709-B from the James River District, the winners of the 2024 event. Teams of 4–8 race through various "towns," testing their Scout skills and earning "gold" to spend at the Gold Nugget Auction, with flexible options for transporting gear like backpacks or wheeled carts. Registration for the 2025 HOVC Klondike Derby is $15 for youth and $10 for adults, covering patches, ribbons, wristbands, camping, and activities—just bring your food and gear for a weekend of excitement!

[Register Your Team Today!]

2024 Eagle Scout Commencement

February 23rd

You are cordially invited to attend this year’s celebration of those Eagle Scouts who have climbed the trail and reached its highest summit in 2024. Each year the Eagle Class is named after someone who, through their encouragement and example, has fostered an environment to enable Scouts to attain Scouting’s highest honor. This year's honorees are Don and Doug Hill. All Scouts who have earned Eagle in 2024 are invited to attend, with their parents and Scoutmaster, free of charge. We encourage parents to include congratulatory messages in the keepsake event program.

[Learn More and Register]

Automotive Maintenance Merit Badge

March 8th

Rev up your skills and get hands-on experience at the Automotive Maintenance Merit Badge session, sponsored by CloverMotor Co. Join us on March 8th from 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM (check-in begins at 12:30 PM) at the Chesterfield County Fairgrounds for an exciting opportunity to learn essential vehicle maintenance techniques. Open to 6th grade and older Scouts, this class will cover the fundamentals of automotive care in an engaging, hands-on environment. No prerequisites are required, but space is limited to 15 Scouts, and pre-registration is required through Black Pug—no walk-ins will be accepted.

[Register to Attend]

National Youth Leadership Training

June 8th–14th

National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) is a premier leadership experience for Scouts, equipping them with the skills to lead both in Scouting and beyond. Over an action-packed week, participants engage in hands-on activities, challenges, and team-based learning, all centered around what a leader must BE, KNOW, and DO. Held in an outdoor setting, NYLT brings leadership to life through real-world application, preparing youth to take on greater responsibilities in their troops, crews, and communities. Are you ready to lead?

[Secure Your Spot]

Buckskin: The Leadership Experience

July 20th–July 26th

Buckskin: The Leadership Experience is a week-long intensive course for Scouts 14+ (Star rank or higher) who are ready to lead. Participants will learn 19 essential leadership skills, advance their outdoor abilities, and apply teamwork through the Patrol Method. With Scoutmaster approval, a strong work ethic, and at least one long-term camping trip completed, Scouts will gain the confidence to lead in their units and beyond. Step up, take the challenge, and become the leader you’re meant to be! Registration opens February 1st.

[Learn More and Stay Updated]

Trailblazer Program Area Updates

The Heart of Virginia Scout Reservation is thrilled to announce the relocation and enhancement of the first-year camper Trailblazer Program Area. As part of the ongoing implementation of the Heart of Virginia Scout Reservation Master Plan, this exciting project moves the program area to the Parade Field at Camp T. Brady Saunders. The new location offers closer proximity to restrooms and a more centralized position within the camp, along with a sprawling open field perfect for outdoor activities.

[Read All About It]

National Jamboree Registration Is Open!

July 22–31, 2026

Scouting’s flagship event is one-of-a-kind. It’s a gathering of approximately 30,000 Scouts, leaders, and staff that showcases everything that is great about the BSA and its members. Held every four years, the Jamboree is an amazing opportunity for participants, volunteers, and visitors to experience the best of Scouting, all in one place. Features include; one of the longest zip line courses in North America, a world-class skate park, ATV offerings, treetop canopy tours, rock climbing, patch trading, stadium shows, and much more! The 2026 National Jamboree is open to Scouts BSA, Venturing, Explorer, and Sea Scouts, 12 and up!

[Visit Our Jamboree Page]

Troop Talk Live, 3pm on 2nd Wednesdays

The second Wednesday of each month at 3pm, Scouting Magazine hosts Troop Talk Live on Facebook. These brief chats cover a variety of topics, from accommodating Scouts with disabilities to uniforming, youth leadership, the Path to Eagle, and more.

February 12th: TBA

March 12th: TBA

[Tune In]

Exploring Live Hour, 2025 Schedule TBA

The National Exploring Live Hour is a monthly Zoom video conference that will help engage and equip Exploring volunteers and professionals to grow, support, and learn more about Exploring. Each month the National Exploring Live Hour will be led by our National Exploring Program Chair and the National Director of Exploring. The live hours will include sharing best practices and ideas that are happening within our councils, highlighting successful growth campaigns, and inspiring new ideas through various trainings. This will also offer an opportunity for local councils to collaborate with territory and national counterparts to generate innovative solutions to real-life Exploring challenges. Stay tuned for more information!

Venturing Podcast: Leading Our Adventures

Every Other Friday at 6pm EST

Ready to explore the exciting world of Venturing? Tune in to Leading Our Adventures, the official Venturing BSA podcast, where passionate Venturers and leaders share inspiration, leadership tips, and incredible stories from across the Venturing community. Each episode covers topics like planning unforgettable adventures, fostering personal growth, and building strong crews. Whether you’re a seasoned Venturer, a new member, or simply curious about Venturing, there’s something for everyone.

[You Tube] [Facebook]

Customized Weekend Experiences

As you plan your program year, now is the perfect time to consider booking a customized Weekend Experience at the Heart of Virginia Council Scout Reservation for your Troop, Crew, or Ship. Craft adventures around the activities your Scouts enjoy the most, like camping, range & target sports, climbing and rappelling, boating, welding, COPE, and more!

[Plan Your Weekend Experience]

Calling All Radio Scouts

The FCC Amateur Radio Service and Scouting share a common mission: service to others. The Camp TBS Amateur Radio Club (ARC) was formed in 2019 while the affiliated operating station was constructed. The station is located at Camp T. Brady Saunders. The goal of this project is to provide a space for STEM programs in radio and teaching the Radio Merit Badge. Membership is informal and offered to BSA registered youth and adult volunteers at no cost.

[Join the Club!]

Citizenship in Society Merit Badge Counselor Orientation

February 16th

The HOVC Advancement Committee urgently invites selected unit members to attend mandatory Orientation sessions to become Citizenship in Society Merit Badge Counselors. Each Troop must have at least one designated and trained Counselor to meet the badge’s important objectives. Unit leaders and Committees, act now to choose who is best equipped to guide your Scouts on this vital journey.

[Secure Your Spot Today]

Central Virginia College of Commissioner Science

March 8th

If you have just completed a tour as a Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, or any other adult Scouter position and want to continue to service Scouting in a different capacity, consider becoming a Unit Commissioner. A Unit Commissioner normally supports three units and draws on your experiences to help new leaders provide the Scouting program to their unit. Unit Commissioners are the “behind-the-scenes” support that ALL units need. Commissioners are district and council leaders who help Scout units succeed. They coach and consult with adult leaders of Cub Scout packs, Boy Scout troops, and Venturing crews. Commissioners help maintain the standards of the Scouts BSA.

[Register to Attend]

Scoutmaster Leader-Specific Training

March 22nd

Calling All Cub Scout Parents, Leaders who have recently bridged to a Troop, and untrained Assistant Scoutmasters! Get your FREE in-person Scoutmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster Leader-Specific Training. The course is offered by and for volunteers just like you, who have lived the role and are able to offer far more insight and guidance than on-line training, AND answer any and all questions you may and will have. Being an ASM is NOT the same as serving Scouts as a Cubmaster or Den Leader, and is one of the most difficult adult transitions in Scouting. Let us help you with that transition.

[Learn More and Register]

The Trainer's EDGE

March 29th

The Trainer's EDGE helps develop the skills of leaders and trainers. It focuses on improving the participant’s leadership, communication and training skills. The Trainer’s Edge is the required train-the-trainer course for Wood Badge, Commissioners’ College, NYLT staff and all other BSA training courses. The Course is highly beneficial for all leaders and trainers. Take advantage of this great opportunity to impact the quality of the programs our youth receive through and creating well-trained leaders!

[Register to Attend]

2025 Scouting University: Save the Date & Survey September 27th

Great leaders inspire greatness in others, and the Heart of Virginia Council’s University of Scouting is here to help you unlock your potential! Join us on September 27th at Richmond’s First Baptist Church for a day of learning, growth, and adventure planning.

Stay tuned for more details from your district leadership and social channels. In the meantime, help shape this year’s event by sharing your input—take our survey and let us know which classes interest you most!

[Take the Scouting U Survey]

Custom Unit Number Patches

Now you can order custom unit number patches with no minimum required—even just one! If you prefer the clean look of a single patch on your uniform or want to skip sewing multiple individual number patches, we’ve got you covered. Contact the Scout Shop at scoutshophovc@scouting.org or 804-204-2628 to place your order.



[Visit the Scout Shop]

Martin Luther King Day of Service Emblem

Scouting America is proud to announce the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service emblem, designed to commemorate participation in the MLK National Day of Service. The MLK Day of Service emblem is not an award. Instead, it is a seasonal emblem to recognize Scouts who participate in MLK Day service projects, and to encourage Scouts who haven’t to do so in the future. Did you participate in 2025? Order your special emblems today!

[Learn More About This Special Emblem]

Scout Sunday Emblem

February 2nd

Scout Sunday is a cherished tradition that highlights the connection between Scouting and faith communities. This annual event invites Scouts to demonstrate their reverence, a key point of the Scout Law, by participating in services at their places of worship. Whether by wearing their uniforms, assisting with worship activities, or sharing their Scouting experiences, Scouts showcase their commitment to duty to God and service to others. The Heart of Virginia Council Scout Shop is now accepting preorders for the 2025 Scout Sunday patches. Download a form on our webpage.

[Visit the Scout Shop]

Pinewood Derby Patches

Get ready, set, go! 2025 Pinewood Derby Patches are available for preorder through the Heart of Virginia Council Scout Shop. Visit the Scout Shop page to download a patch preorder form that you can submit via email or in person, then come visit us at 8090 Villa Park to pick up your patches (and browse our Pinewood Derby accessories while you're there).

[Visit the Scout Shop]

Did Your Unit Earn Free Rank Patches?

Units that sold at least $400 in Camp Cards, Popcorn, and/or Peanuts, held a Family Friends of Scouting presentation, and completed unit renewal on time will receive free rank patches this year! Congratulations! 🎉



To claim your patches, email your advancement report with the purchase order summary page to scoutshophovc@scouting.org at least 24 business hours before your planned pick-up. This helps our Scout Shop team prepare your order so it’s ready when you arrive. Thank you for your dedication to Scouting—your hard work makes a difference!

Unit Flag Orders

Whether you're replacing an old and tattered unit flag, or you want one with the new Scouting America logo, all unit flag purchases now go through Carrot-Top Industries. Create a customized flag on their website, linked below, utilizing the new Scouting America branding.

[Snag a Flag]

24-Hour Notice for Orders & Free Rank Patches

Did you know that we will shop your order and have it ready for you to pick up? This is a service we're proud to offer, and want to remind our customers to please provide us 24-hour notice for all orders. We also require you provide us with 24-hour notice before picking up your free rank patches (for qualifying units).

[Visit the Scout Shop]

Patch Sewing Service

Did you know that the Scout Shop offers a Patch Sewing Service to save you time and frustration (especially if you don't own a sewing machine, and the thought of hand-stitching or using Badge Magic makes you shudder)? We offer brand new uniform shirts with all the pre-sewn bells and whistles, and can even add Unit Numerals, badges of office, and even merit badge patches for just $3.50 per patch.

[Visit the Scout Shop]

February Roundtables

Roundtable is a monthly program offered by districts that give leaders hands-on experience and provides a forum for leaders to offer and receive help from their fellow Scouters. Each district offers special supplemental training for volunteers at the beginning of the month.

[Learn More & Get the Dates]

Heart of Virginia Council Strategic Plan

Scouting has a rich history of positively impacting the lives of over 130 million youth, and we have a bright future ahead of us. We have modernized our traditional programs with the innovations of science and technology, while infusing safety into all aspects of our program. We continue to enable the girls and boys involved to develop lifelong friendships and build the life skills needed to become the future leaders of our communities, businesses, and country.

[Read Our Full Strategic Plan]

Heart of Virginia Council Master Plan

We invite you to visit our Heart of Virginia Council Master Plan page to learn more about where we've spent more than $950,550 to improve our Scout Reservation, and how we intend to continue making improvements in the years to come! These projects cannot be completed without the support of the units who participate in our annual fundraising (Popcorn & Peanuts, and Camp Cards) or our very generous donors! Thank you!

[View the HOVC Master Plan]

The Eagle's Nest

Eagle Scout is the highest achievement or rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America program. Only four percent of Scouts achieve this remarkable milestone. The Eagle's Nest celebrates the accomplishments of those Scouts who have attained that highest rank in Scouting.

[Visit the Eagle's Nest]

Memorials & Honors

Tributes and memorials are a way for us to honor, cherish, or remember our Scouting mentors and loved ones. Honors and Memorials can be made at the Leadership Center or by mailing donations to 8090 Villa Park Drive, Henrico, VA 23228. Please include a memo denoting the individual(s) you are donating in honor or memorial of.

[View Our Memorials & Honors]

Review Us on Google

The HOVC Communications team continues to work hard to provide existing, new, and potential Scouts with the best possible experience! That includes access to great, accurate information… and we think YOU are an important source! We would love to hear from you about your positive experiences with HOVC.

[Leave a Review]

Friday 5 & Courier Newsletters

Get the top news stories of the week and month by subscribing to our Friday 5 and Courier newsletters. We'll keep you updated on the news you need every Friday at noon. Subscribe and view the archives by visiting the link below.

[Get the News]

Rate, Review & Follow!

Have you recently visited Camp T. Brady Saunders or Cub Adventure Camp? We hope you’ve had an amazing time and invite you to rate, review, and follow us. Your feedback helps us improve and ensure every visit is unforgettable!

[Cub Adventure Camp on Facebook]

[Cub Adventure Camp Google Reviews]

[Camp T. Brady Saunders on Facebook]

[Camp T. Brady Saunders Google Reviews]