Venturing: Teen Adventure & Leadership for Ages 14–21 Near Chicago

Venturing is a co-ed program for older youth that’s all about freedom, adventure, and leadership. Designed for teens ages 14–20, Venturing lets youth choose what they want to do—whether that’s rock climbing, kayaking, shooting sports, community projects, or creative hobbies—and then plan and lead those experiences together. It’s Scouting on your terms: youth-led, flexible, and built around what excites you.

Find a Venturing Crew

What Is Venturing?

Venturing is part of Scouting America, created specifically for teens who want more independence and bigger challenges. Instead of a fixed curriculum, Venturing crews decide their own focus and adventures. Youth take the lead in planning trips, managing budgets, and setting goals, while adult advisors are there to support and guide. If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure club for teens near Chicago—or something beyond a traditional troop—Venturing delivers.

Group of people pose with arms around each other near two large rock climbing walls outdoors.

How Venturing Is Different from Scouts BSA

Many teens and parents ask how Venturing compares to Scouts BSA. The short answer: Venturing is more flexible, more independent, and co-ed.

Boy in a cap sitting on a rock by a stream, smiling, reaching into water.

focuses on structured advancement, troop leadership, and the Eagle Scout path.

Venturing

is organized around a crew’s interests, is fully co-ed, and emphasizes advanced leadership and exploration. Many teens participate in both programs, or join Venturing after Scouts BSA to keep the adventure going in a new way.

High Adventure and Beyond

Outdoor adventure is a big part of Venturing—but it’s not the only option. Depending on the crew, Venturers might go backpacking, kayaking, climbing, or camping, while others focus on hobbies like photography, shooting sports, faith-based service, or leadership projects. In Rainbow Council, Venturing is growing, and teens even have the opportunity to help start a new crew built around what they love.

Leadership That Matters for Real Life

Venturers take on advanced leadership roles that go well beyond typical extracurriculars. Youth plan activities, coordinate logistics, manage finances, and lead peers through challenges. These experiences build independence, confidence, and teamwork—qualities that stand out on college applications and prepare teens for life after high school. For parents, Venturing offers meaningful growth without pressure or overload.

Flexible by Design for Busy Teens

Venturing is built to fit real teen schedules. Crews often meet a couple of times a month and focus on weekend adventures or special events. Participation is flexible—teens can join the activities that fit around school, jobs, sports, and other commitments. This makes Venturing a great option for teens who want impactful experiences without weekly obligations.

Co-Ed, Welcoming, and Youth-Led

Venturing crews are fully co-ed, creating a welcoming environment where teens work together as equals. Youth choose their direction, set their goals, and take responsibility for making things happen. It’s a supportive setting where teens can be themselves, try new things, and grow alongside peers who share their interests.

Venturing Near You

Venturing opportunities are available throughout Chicagoland’s southwest suburbs. Teens from Joliet, Bolingbrook, Plainfield, and surrounding communities take part in crews that meet locally and explore the region together. If you don’t see a crew that matches your interests yet, Rainbow Council can help you start one.

Related Programs for Older Youth

Venturing isn’t the only option for teens. Some youth prefer career-focused experiences through Exploring, while others stay active in Scouts BSA alongside Venturing. Rainbow Council offers multiple paths so teens can choose what fits them best.

Frequently Asked Questions About Venturing

  • Do I need to have been a Scout before to join Venturing?

    No. Venturing is open to teens ages 14–21, even if they’ve never been involved in Scouting before.

  • What kinds of adventures do Venturers do?

    It depends on the crew. Activities can include camping, climbing, paddling, shooting sports, road trips, service projects, or creative hobbies.

  • Is Venturing only for extreme outdoor activities?

    Not at all. Some crews focus on outdoor adventure, while others center on hobbies, leadership, or community involvement.

  • Can I still earn Eagle Scout in Venturing?

    Youth who earned Eagle Scout through Scouts BSA often join Venturing afterward. Those who are still eligible can continue working on Eagle while also participating in Venturing, and Venturing has its own awards as well.

  • How are Venturing meetings structured?

    Meetings are informal and youth-run, often focused on planning upcoming adventures and projects.

Still Have Questions? We’re Here to Help

Choosing the right activities for your child is a big decision—especially if Scouting is new to your family. If you’re not sure where to start, or you’d like help finding the best fit for your child’s age and interests, our team is happy to help.


You can email us directly at
membership@rainbowcouncil.org

Ready to Chart Your Own Course?

If you’re looking for a teen adventure program near Chicago that puts youth in charge, Venturing is ready when you are. Whether you want to join an existing crew or start something new with friends, Rainbow Council can help you take the first step.