On The Scouting Trail: The past few weeks saw some good Scouting Activity 
Clarke Farrer 12-02-2020

Keeping Kids Safe in Scouting

 Are kids safe in Scouting? That’s a question that many have wondered in recent months due to the news coverage of old abuse claims, the National BSA’s bankruptcy, and the barrage of ads soliciting abuse claims. The deadline for filing claims passed about a week ago and there was a surprisingly high number of claims filed nationwide. Fortunately, there were relatively few claims in the Grand Teton Council. As of this writing, we are only aware of five.

 But let’s be clear, one claim is too many. And the fact that any child suffered abuse in Scouting is a national tragedy. It is horrific that abusers would use a position of trust and leadership in Scouting to gain access to and harm children. We sincerely regret this and apologize to anyone who suffered abuse in Scouting. The BSA is trying to take responsibility and make amends.

 Starting in the 1980s the BSA instituted a series of safeguards we call Youth Protection Policies to protect Scouts. All adult leaders were required to take Youth Protection Training (YPT), Youth Protection Parent’s Guides were included in all Scouting handbooks, and all leaders were required to have criminal background checks upon registration with the BSA.

 The combined effect of all these policies and procedures has made Scouting highly effective and a safe haven for kids. Statistically, kids are safer in Scouting than they are at home and in other organizations that serve youth. Yes, kids are safe in Scouting!

 Still, it is incumbent upon us as parents and leaders to make sure everyone takes YPT and strictly follows and enforces all YPT policies. The BSA is in the process of creating a victim’s trust fund to compensate those who suffered abuse in Scouting. Today, each of us has a duty to make sure all our kids are safe and abuse in Scouting remains something in the past.

 Remember, “Youth Protection starts with you.”

 I’ll see you on the Scouting Trail,

 Clarke