Leader Training & Resources

The Essential Tools for Every Scout Leader

Empowering our leaders is essential to the success of every Scout. Our Training and Leader Resources page is designed to provide you with the knowledge, tools, and confidence needed to guide your Scouts on their journey. Whether you're just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, you'll find a wealth of resources here, from mandatory training courses to advanced leadership programs. Together, let's ensure that every Scout experiences the adventure, learning, and growth that Scouting promises.

A group of boy scouts are posing for a picture in front of trees.
A woman wearing a red tank top and earrings is smiling

Adult Training Specific Events

Transform Your Leadership Journey

Adult leader training is vital to the success of Scouting programs and ensures that a fun, safe and fulfilling experience is provided to each Scout. Some courses may be completed online through my.scouting.org. All other courses are provided by the council  on a regular basis. 

  • Youth Protection Training

    Youth Protection Training (YPT) —  is required for all adults who wish to camp or otherwise volunteer with youth and must be renewed every 2 years. It is recommended all parents complete this training so everyone assisting to keep our youth safe.

  • BALOO: Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation Pt. 2

    Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) —  is a one-and-a-half day course designed as an introduction to the Cub Scout outdoor program. The training has two components: online pre-requisite and an outdoor overnight hands on component.

  • Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills

    Outdoor Leader Skills and Scoutmaster Training (IOLS) —  This hands-on course provides adult leaders the practical outdoor skills they need to lead Scouts in the out-of-doors. Upon completion, leaders should feel comfortable teaching Scouts the basic skills required to obtain the First Class rank.

    Register For This Training Here
  • Wood Badge

    Wood Badge -Wood Badge is the highest level of Scout leadership training and provides you with the tools to be a superior leader. The leadership skills taught are for leaders from all Scouting areas including Cub Scouting, Scouts BSA, Venturing and the district and council. The 1st half of the course utilizes a classroom environment and practical exercises to teach the essentials of leadership. You’ll learn what makes leadership work for you in Scouting and your personal life. The 2nd half offers classroom and outdoor experiences to help you learn the application of leadership skills. Finally, you will write and complete a “Ticket”. The “Ticket” consists of five written goals. These goals connect your new leadership knowledge to your role in Scouting.

Supplemental Training

Guide with Confidence

Supplemental training courses offer you the opportunity to deepen your knowledge and refine your leadership skills, ensuring you can provide the best possible experience for your Scouts. From advanced outdoor skills to specialized leadership techniques, these courses are designed to take your Scouting expertise to the next level.

  • Rainbow Council Roundtable

    Roundtable – Roundtable is exactly what it implies – it is an opportunity for Scouters to receive quality resources, knowledge, and skills and work as a group to have an opportunity for an equal exchange of ideas. Roundtables focus on program highlights for upcoming months and are held in all districts. The objectives of roundtables are to provide leaders with program ideas; information on policy and events; and training opportunities. It is a forum for sharing experiences and enjoying fun and fellowship with other Scout leaders. Roundtable will inspire, motivate, and enable you to provide a stronger program for your Scouts.


    Sign Up To Attend These Monthly Meetings
  • Wilderness First Aid

    Wilderness First Aid -This training is NOT a Scouting America Training. It is only required for Troops and Crews if they are attending one of our 4 National High Adventure Bases (Philmont, Sea Base, Northern Tier, or The Summit) or if you will be conducting a Scouting activity 60 minutes away from definitive medical care.


    This training is offered Spring and Fall but must meet a minimum class size to be held.

    Register For This Event Here
  • Range Instructor

    Range instructor – Range instructor training is for any adult interested in hosting a shooting program for their unit because help is needed on the range for a unit level activity where applicable. Scouts BSA units may host a Tomahawk throwing program with properly certified adults. Also, Range instructors are also needed to volunteer at the range at RSR on weekends when units request an Archery, Shotgun or Rifle program and during Day Camp. 


    Classes are held in the Spring and Fall for various certifications.

    Register For This Training Here
  • Leave No Trace

    This introduction to Leave No Trace is for ALL Scouts BSA, Venturers and adult leaders (including Cub leaders) who use the outdoors. It is the minimum recommended training for ALL adults and older scouts who will be teaching Leave No Trace in their troops and/or signing off on the 2nd Class, First Class, or merit badge Leave No Trace requirements. 



    Register For This Training Here
  • COPE Instructor

    COPE Instructor – Be a volunteer with the Challenge Course team! Volunteers, age 18+, are needed on weekends and during summer camp to offer high ropes, climbing tower and low cope challenges to youth ages 5-21. Level 2 certification is offered in the Spring during a Saturday course. 



    See Class Schedule Here
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Youth Training

Training for Tomorrow's Leaders

Youth training equips our Scouts with the leadership skills and confidence they need to thrive, both within Scouting and in their everyday lives. These programs are designed to develop young leaders who are ready to take on challenges and inspire others.

  • NYLT

    National Youth Leader Training (NYLT) – is a six day, five night course designed to teach youth ages 13+ and First Class advanced leadership skills using the patrol method. The coursework is designed to engage scouts in hands on activities simulating an entire month of unit leadership including communication, goal setting, conflict management, and planning. Over the course of 6 days and 5 nights, youth are equipped with transferable skills to make them stronger leaders in their units and in life.:


    · Must be a registered member of a Scouting unit.


    · Scouts must be at least 13 years old and should have completed Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops, Crews or Ships. .


    · It is important that each participant have basic camping and outdoor cooking experience.


    · Must be under age 18 by the last day of the course if in Scouts BSA or under 21 if in Venturing or Sea Scouts


    NYLT is typically offered in the Summer but subject to coordinator availability.

    Register For Training Here
  • Den Chief

    -Den Chiefs are very important leadership roles for youth in Scouts BSA, Crews and Ships.


    Serves as a Scouting role model for the Cub Scouts in the den, as well as the entire pack;

    Promotes Scouting in general and the local troop in particular;

    Encourages the transition of Webelos Scouts into Scouts BSA;

    Holds a leadership position in the troop or crew, thus fulfilling an advancement requirement in the unit.

    Den Chief Training is held at council merit badge days, summer camp and online.

    Take This Course Online
Two boy scouts are looking at a tree in the woods.

Ready to Take The Next Step?

Unlock the full potential of your leadership skills with our comprehensive training and resources. Whether you're new to Scouting or looking to advance your expertise, now is the time to equip yourself with the tools and knowledge to make a lasting impact on the lives of your Scouts. Start your journey toward becoming the leader they deserve today!

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