Brothers,
A few weeks ago, we came together as an organization for Momentum: Spark, the Order of the Arrow’s first-ever national induction weekend. Together, we inducted nearly 800 candidates and engaged in fellowship with members from all 50 states. It’s hard to believe, but 2020 is now quickly coming to a close. As we look back on these past months, we continue to be amazed by the innovation showcased at the lodge, chapter and section levels.
This year, we’ve been met with an immense challenge, yet you continue to rise to the occasion. The bold leadership demonstrated by chapter and lodge leaders across the country is nothing short of inspiring. Together, we’ll continue to accomplish extraordinary things as we move through the remainder of 2020. Just as many of you have set goals for your terms as lodge chief or other leadership positions, we wanted to share with you our three top priorities for the remainder of our time as national officers:
First, we continue to develop new tools to increase membership, enabling more young people to experience our life-changing programs. Last month, we released a set of incentives to provide local leaders with an extra level of motivation as we prepare to enter the winter months. These incentives include a trading post discount and exclusive memorabilia. We encourage you to learn about these incentives and share it with your fellow lodge members in the coming days.
Second, we aspire to showcase innovation at the lodge and chapter levels as we adapt to ever-changing circumstances of the pandemic. By sharing these innovations with local leaders, we can learn from one another and find best practices to solve common obstacles. If you are not already, we invite you to join the conversation by becoming a member of the Driving Momentum Facebook group and submitting innovative ideas using our online form.
Third, we want to share #ScoutingStories with non-members on social media. In these uncertain times, the BSA provides young people with a beacon of light, but that message is often drowned out by louder voices. We encourage you to share why you love Scouting and the OA with your friends and followers using #ScoutingStories.
We are both looking forward to joining many of you at virtual events in the coming days. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if we can ever be of service.
In brotherhood,
Zach Schonfeld
2020 National Chief
2020chief@oa-bsa.org
Noah Smith
2020 National Vice Chief
2020vicechief@oa-bsa.org