About Ventura County Council, Scouting America
Scouting America (formerly the Boy Scouts of America) was incorporated on June 25, 1910, and received a Congressional Charter in 1916. Since its founding, the organization has been committed to preparing young people to make ethical and moral choices throughout their lives by instilling the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.
Through character development, citizenship training, leadership experiences, and outdoor adventure, Scouting equips youth with the skills, confidence, and leadership abilities needed to become responsible, engaged citizens. This mission is accomplished through partnerships with schools, faith-based organizations, civic groups, businesses, government agencies, and other community organizations that share a commitment to developing the next generation of leaders.
Founded in 1921, the Ventura County Council, Scouting America serves youth and families throughout Ventura County by delivering exceptional Scouting programs that inspire adventure, leadership, service, and personal growth. Headquartered at the Hal Watkins Scout Center in Camarillo, the council supports local packs, troops, crews, ships, posts, and Exploring programs through volunteer leadership, training, camping opportunities, advancement, and community partnerships. Together with hundreds of dedicated volunteers and chartered organizations, the Ventura County Council is committed to ensuring every young person has the opportunity to discover their potential, develop lifelong values, and become prepared to lead and serve in their communities.
Mission Statement
The mission of Ventura County Council is to strengthen and expand Scouting in Ventura County by building strong units, empowering leaders, and delivering programs and camps that enrich the local Scouting experience.
Vision Statement
Together, volunteer and professional Scouters create an environment where every young person can discover their path, live the ideals of the Scout Oath, Law, and Motto, and grow into the best version of themselves.
Want more information on Scouting America or looking to connect with one of our staff members?
Services of the Ventura County Council
The National Council, Scouting America charters Ventura County Council to serve local chartered organizations and community partners throughout Ventura County. Supported by dedicated volunteers and professional staff, the council provides the resources, training, programs, camping opportunities, communications, advancement, insurance, and leadership support needed to deliver safe, high-quality Scouting experiences for youth.
Council Operating Principles
- Lead with integrity and communicate clearly.
- Deliver exceptional service.
- Focus on mission and results.
- Simplify, innovate, and execute.
- Take ownership and be accountable.
- Build strong relationships.
- Recognize and celebrate success.
Governance
Ventura County Council, is the legally and financially independent nonprofit organization chartered by BSA to deliver Scouting programs throughout the county of Ventura.
The council is incorporated in California and registered with the California Corporation Commission. It is governed by its Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws. An all-volunteer Executive Board is elected each year at the Annual Business Meeting. Among its many responsibilities, the board is charged with hiring a Scout Executive to oversee and lead daily operations. A list of the current Executive Board is available at: Council Leadership
Programs of Scouting America
- Cub Scouting is a family and home-centered program for boys and girls who are in kindergarten through fifth grade.
- Scouts BSA is for boys and girls ages 11-18 and is designed to achieve BSA objectives through a vigorous outdoor program and peer group leadership with adult counsel. The Motto, “Be Prepared” is recognized worldwide.
- Venturing is a coed program that focuses on outdoor and hobby activities as well as peer leadership.
- Exploring is for young men and women, ages 14-20, that provides real opportunities to explore career choices and other vocational opportunities. This is accomplished in association with business and community partners as well as local school systems.
Hal Watkins Service Center:
509 E. Daily Drive
Camarillo, California 93010 (805)482-8938