How to Plan a Good Turn for America Service Project

“To help other people at all times” – that part of the Scout Oath reminds us to be of service to others.

Begin the planning of your project by discussing various service ideas with your Scouts. Adult leaders, your chartered organization, and local government are also good resources for ideas. Projects will be more meaningful and fun if they are well planned.

Your project should:

Be significant. The project should be something important. When it’s done, everyone should be able to look back with satisfaction on an effort that has made a difference in your community.

Be democratic. Scouts are more likely to buy into a project if they have taken an active part in selecting, planning and organizing it.

Be clearly defined. A project must have a definite begining and end point and logical steps in between. A clear goal allows everyone to measure the progress along the way and increases everyone’s sense of participation and pride in a job well done.

Be well prepared. This begins long before the project starts. Ask these questions. What is the purpose of the project? Who should be contacted as resources? How many Scouts must be involved to complete the work in the allotted time? What tools or resources are needed? What safety issues must be addressed?

Be promoted. Promote your project within your community. This will not only provide additonal workers, but will increase the visibility of Scouting and the impact it has on your community. Create a yard sign that says “Good Turn for America Service Project” or “Good Turn for America Supports Our Community.”

Be reflective. Spend 10 or 15 minutes when the project is finished discussing the project.

Don’t forget to register your hours at www. goodturnforamerica.org You can do this by logging in with your Unit ID and Password on website or by sending your project information to gpc-bsa.org. Don’t forget that Scouting for Food qualifies as a Good Turn for America service project!