Article Guide
The Eagle Scout Project Workbook is an essential tool for scouts embarking on their journey to achieve the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. This comprehensive form guides scouts through the planning, execution, and reflection phases of their service project. It includes sections for outlining project ideas, detailing the steps required for completion, and identifying the resources needed. Scouts are encouraged to engage with their community and seek input from mentors, ensuring that their projects are meaningful and impactful. Additionally, the workbook requires documentation of the project's progress and a final report, which helps scouts reflect on their experiences and the skills they have developed. With clear instructions and a structured format, the Eagle Scout Project Workbook not only facilitates the completion of a significant community service project but also fosters personal growth and leadership skills in young scouts.
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Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook
Eagle Scout candidate’s name ___________________________________________
Message From the Chief Scout Executive
Congratulations on attaining the rank of Life Scout. Each year, approximately 57,000 Scouts just like you reach this milestone. And, since you’re reading this, I know you are looking forward to achieving the pinnacle of your Scouting experience: the rank of Eagle Scout.
Think of your Eagle Scout service project as the ultimate “application phase” of what you have learned thus far in Scouting: leadership. . . responsibility. . . managing projects. . . applying your Scout
Some may suggest how big your project should be, or how many hours should be spent on it, but that is entirely up to you. Service, impact, and leadership are the objectives and measurements. Use these as your criteria to consider, select, develop, and evaluate your project. For most, the Eagle Scout service project becomes a truly defining moment in your quest for excellence. Planning and leadership skills utilized and memories of outcomes achieved will last you a lifetime. You will want to share those stories with others, so make it a worthy project!
Legendary
Robert J. Mazzuca
Chief Scout Executive
Scouts and Parents or Guardians
Be sure to read “Message to Scouts and Parents or Guardians” on page 21 and “Excerpts and Summaries From the Guide to Advancement” on page 22. Those pages contain important information that will help you ensure requirements are properly administered according to National Council policies and procedures.
Completing This Workbook
If you are working from a printed copy of the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, you may complete it legibly in ink, or with a typewriter. Feel free to add as many pages as you wish. This may be necessary if more space is needed, or as you include photographs, photocopies, maps, or other helpful printed materials.
A fillable version of the new workbook is available at www.scouting.org (click on “Youth,” then “Boy Scout,” then “Advancement, Awards, Recognition”). If you experience difficulties with the fillable PDF, you may need to download a more recent version of Adobe Acrobat reader (available free online). Or, it might be necessary to use a printed copy.
At the time of this printing, the national Advancement Team was actively coordinating the production of a new electronic version of the workbook. If testing proves successful, we will replace the fillable PDF version with it. Regardless, the workbook will continue to be available for printing a hard copy that can be completed by hand or with a typewriter.
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Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook
Contents
Message From the Chief Scout Executive |
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Meeting Eagle Scout Requirement 5 |
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Project Purpose |
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Choosing a Project |
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Restrictions |
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How to Use This Workbook |
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Contact Information |
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Eagle Scout Service Project Proposal |
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Eagle Scout Service Project Final Plan |
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Eagle Scout Service Project Fundraising Application |
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Procedures and Limitations on Eagle Scout Service Project Fundraising |
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Eagle Scout Service Project Report |
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Message to Scouts and Parents or Guardians |
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Excerpts and Summaries from the Guide to Advancement |
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Only the Offcial Workbook May Be Used
Eagle Scout candidates must use the offcial Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, No.
No council, district, unit, or individual has the authority to produce or require additional forms, or to add or change requirements, or to make any additions, deletions, or changes in the text, outlines, links, graphics, or other layout or informational elements of the workbook. It is permissible, however, to print, copy, or send individual pages or forms within the workbook as long as they are not changed in the process.
Attention: Unit, District, and Council Reviewers
Eagle Scout projects must be evaluated primarily on impact: the extent of benefit to the religious institution, school, or community, and on the leadership provided by the candidate. There must also be evidence of planning and development. This is not only part of the requirement but relates to practicing the Scout motto, “Be Prepared.” However, in determining if a project meets Eagle Scout requirement 5, reviewers must not require more planning and development than necessary to execute the project. These elements must not overshadow the project itself, as long as the effort was well led and resulted in otherwise worthy results acceptable to the beneficiary.
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Meeting Eagle Scout Requirement 5
Eagle Scout Requirement 5
While a Life Scout, plan, develop, and give leadership to others in a service project helpful to any religious institution, any school, or your community. (The project must beneft an organization other than Boy Scouting.) A project proposal must be approved by the organization benefting from the effort, your unit leader and unit committee, and the council or district before you start. You must use the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, No.
Project Purpose
In addition to providing service and fulfilling the part of the Scout Oath, “to help other people at all times,” one of the primary purposes of the Eagle Scout service project is to demonstrate or hone, or to learn and develop, leadership skills. Related to this are important lessons in project management and taking responsibility for a significant accomplishment.
Choosing a Project
Your project must be for any religious institution, any school, or your community. It is important to note, however, that the Boy Scouts of America has recently redefined “your community” to include the “community of the world.” Normally, “your community” would not refer to individuals, although a council or district advancement committee may consider scenarios in which an individual in need can affect a community. It is then a matter of identifying
a source representing the “community” who will provide approvals. For more information, see the Guide to Advancement, No. 33088, section 9.0.2.5.
Your project must present an opportunity for planning, development, and leadership. For example, if a blood drive is chosen and the blood bank provides a set of “canned” instructions to be implemented with no further planning, the planning effort would not meet the test. You may need to meet with blood bank officials and work out an approach that requires planning, development, and leadership. This might involve developing and carrying out a marketing and logistics plan, or coordinating multiple events.
An Internet search can reveal hundreds of service project ideas. Your project doesn’t have to be original, but it could be. It might be a construction, conservation, or remodeling project, or it could be the presentation of an event with a worthwhile purpose. Conversations with your unit leader, teachers, your religious leader, or the leaders of various community organizations can also uncover ideas. In any case, be sure the project presents a challenge that requires leadership, but also something that you can do with unskilled helpers, and within a reasonable period of time.
Restrictions
•There are no required minimum hours for a project. No one may tell you how many hours must be spent on it.
•Routine labor is not normally appropriate for a project. This might be defined as a job or service you may provide as part of your daily life, or a routine maintenance job normally done by the beneficiary (for example, pulling weeds on the football field at your school.)
•While projects may not be of a commercial nature or for a business, this is not meant to disallow work for community institutions, such as museums and service agencies (like homes for the elderly, for example), that would otherwise be acceptable. Some aspect of a business operation provided as a community service may also be
•A project may not be a fundraiser. In other words, it may not be an effort that primarily collects money, even for a worthy charity. Fundraising is permitted only for securing materials and facilitating a project, and it may need to be approved by your council. See “Eagle Scout Service Project Fundraising Application” on page 17.
•No more than one Eagle Scout candidate may receive credit for working on the same Eagle Scout service project.
•Projects may not be performed for the Boy Scouts of America, or its councils, districts, units, or properties.
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How to Use This Workbook
This workbook includes valuable information that can help ensure your success. It also includes four forms: a proposal, a final plan, a fundraising application, and a project report.
Before completing any of the forms, read with your parent or guardian the “Message to Scouts and Parents or Guardians” found on page 21. If your project is worthy and meets Eagle Scout requirement 5 as it is written, the message will help you successfully present your proposal through the approval process.
Preparing the Project Proposal (Pages
Your proposal must be completed first. It is an overview, but also the beginnings of planning. It shows your unit leader, unit committee, and council or district that the following tests can be met. For your proposal to be approved, it must show the following:
1.It provides suffcient opportunity to meet the Eagle Scout service project requirement. You must show that planning, development, and leadership will take place; and how the three factors will benefit a religious institution, a school, or your community.
2.It appears to be feasible. You must show the project is realistic for you to complete.
3.Safety issues will be addressed. You must show you have an understanding of what must be done to guard against injury, and what will be done if someone does get hurt.
4.Action steps for further detailed planning are included. You must make a list of the key steps you will take to make sure your plan has enough details to be carried out successfully.
5.You are on the right track with a reasonable chance for a positive experience.
Your proposal need only be detailed enough to show a reviewer that you can meet the tests above. If you find in order to do that, the proposal must be lengthy and complicated, your project might be more complex than necessary.
If your project does not require materials or supplies, etc., simply mark those spaces “not applicable.” Remember, do not begin any work or raise any money or obtain any materials until your project proposal has been approved. If you submit your proposal too close to your 18th birthday, it may not be approved in time to finish planning and executing the project.
The Final Plan (Pages
Complete the Eagle Scout Service Project Final Plan after your proposal has been approved. This is a tool for your
The Fundraising Application (Pages
If your fundraising effort involves contributions only from the beneficiary or you, your parents or relatives, your unit or its chartered organization, or parents or members in your unit, submitting the fundraising application is not necessary. If you will be obtaining money or materials from any other sources, you must submit a completed application to the local council service center. For more information, see “Procedures and Limitations on Eagle Scout Service Project Fundraising” on page 18.
The Project Report (Pages
Complete this portion after the project has been finished. Note the space for you to sign (confirming that you led and completed the project), and also the signature lines for the beneficiary and your unit leader’s approval that your project met Eagle Scout requirement 5. As with the proposal and final plan, if materials, etc., were not required, mark those spaces “not applicable.”
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Contact Information
Eagle Scout Candidate
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Current Unit Information |
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Council name: Occoneechee |
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City: Raleigh |
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Email address: (Eagle Service Desk) [email protected]
Council or District Project Approval Representative
(Your unit leader, unit advancement coordinator, or council or district advancement chair may help you learn who this will be.)
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Address: 307 Bolin Creek Drive |
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(Your council or district project approval representative may help you learn who this will be.)
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Eagle Scout Service Project Proposal
Eagle Scout candidate’s name ___________________________________________
Eagle Scout Requirement 5
While a Life Scout, plan, develop, and give leadership to others in a service project helpful to any religious institution, any school, or your community. (The project must benefit an organization other than Boy Scouting.) A project proposal must be approved by the organization benefiting from the effort, your unit leader and unit committee, and the council or district before you start. You must use the Eagle Scout Service Project Workbook, No.
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Eagle Scout Service Project Proposal
Project Description and Beneft |
Eagle Scout candidate: |
When do you plan to begin work on the project?
How long do you think it will take to complete?
Giving Leadership
Approximately how many people will be needed to help on your project?
Where will you recruit them (unit members, friends, neighbors, family, others)? Explain:
Materials
(Materials are things that become part of the fnished project, such as lumber, nails, and paint.)
What types of materials, if any, will you need? You do not yet need a detailed list of exact quantities, but you must show you have a reasonable idea of what is required.
Supplies
(Supplies are things you use up, such as masking tape, tarps, and garbage bags.)
What kinds of supplies, if any, will you need? You do not yet need a detailed list or exact quantities, but you must show you have a reasonable idea of what is required.
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Eagle Scout Service Project Proposal
Tools
What kinds of tools, if any, will you need?
Permits and Permissions
(Note that property owners normally secure permits.)
Will you need to secure permissions or permits (for example, building permits)? Who will obtain them? How much will they cost? How long will it take to secure them?
Preliminary Cost Estimate
(You do not need exact costs. Reviewers will just want to see if you can reasonably expect to raise enough money to cover an initial estimate of expenses.)
(Enter your estimated expenses) Fundraising Explain where you will get the money for total costs indicated below, left.
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*Such costs as food, water, gasoline, parking, permits, equipment rental, sales tax, etc.
Project Phases
Others might include fundraising, preparation, execution, and reporting. You may have as many phases as you want, but it is not necessary to become overly complicated.
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Logistics
(A Tour Plan has also been called a “Tour Permit.” Check with your council service center to determine if one is required.)
How will you handle transportation of materials, supplies, tools, and helpers? Will you need a Tour Plan?
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Eagle Scout Service Project Proposal, continued
Safety Issues
(The Guide to Safe Scouting is an important resource in considering safety issues.)
Describe the hazards and safety concerns you and your helpers should be aware of as this project is conducted.
Further Planning (You do not have to list every step, but it must be enough to show you have a reasonable idea of how to complete a fnal plan.)
or example, “Complete a more detailed set of drawings.”
Candidate’s Promise (Signed before approvals below are granted)
On my honor as a Scout, I have read this entire workbook, including the “Message to Scouts and Parents or Guardians” on
SignedDate
Unit Leader Approval* |
Unit Committee Approval* |
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I have reviewed this proposal and discussed it with the |
This Eagle Scout candidate is a Life Scout, and registered in |
candidate. I believe it provides impact worthy of an Eagle |
our unit. I have reviewed this proposal, I am comfortable the |
Scout service project, and will involve planning, development, |
project is feasible, and I will do everything I can to see that our |
and leadership. I am comfortable the Scout understands |
unit measures up to the level of support we have agreed to |
what to do, and how to lead the effort. I will see that the |
provide (if any). I certify that I have been authorized by our unit |
project is monitored, and that adults or others present will not |
committee to provide its approval for this proposal. |
overshadow him. |
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Benefciary Approval* |
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Council or District Approval |
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I have read sections 9.0.2.0 through 9.0.2.15, regarding the |
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do all we can to see it through. We realize funding on our part |
Eagle Scout Service Project, in the Guide to Advancement, No. |
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33088. I agree on my honor to apply the procedures as written, |
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support (if any) that we have agreed to. We understand any |
and in compliance with the policy on “Unauthorized Changes |
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fundraising he conducts will be in our name and that funds left |
to Advancement.” Accordingly, I approve this proposal. I will |
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over will come to us. We will provide receipts to donors |
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as required. |
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encourage him to share it with a project coach. |
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*While it makes sense to obtain them in the order they appear, there shall be no required sequence for the order of obtaining approvals marked with an asterisk (*). However, council or district approval must come after the others.
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Form Specifications
| Fact Name | Description |
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| Purpose | The Eagle Scout Project Workbook is designed to help Scouts plan, develop, and execute their Eagle Scout service project. |
| Requirements | Completion of the workbook is mandatory for all Scouts pursuing the Eagle Scout rank, ensuring they meet the necessary criteria. |
| Approval Process | Before starting the project, Scouts must obtain approval from their local council and project beneficiary. |
| Documentation | The workbook serves as a record of the project, including planning, execution, and the final report, which is submitted for review. |
| State-Specific Forms | Some states may have specific requirements or forms related to community service projects, governed by local laws. |
Eagle Scout Project Workbook: Usage Guidelines
Completing the Eagle Scout Project Workbook is an important step in the journey to achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. The workbook serves as a planning tool and a record of the project you will undertake. It allows you to outline your project, gather necessary approvals, and reflect on your experience. By following these steps, you can efficiently fill out the form and move forward with your project.
- Start by downloading the Eagle Scout Project Workbook from the official Boy Scouts of America website.
- Read through the entire workbook to understand its sections and requirements.
- Begin with the Project Title. Clearly state the name of your project.
- In the Project Description section, provide a detailed overview of what your project entails. Be specific about the goals and objectives.
- Identify the Beneficiary of your project. This could be a community organization, school, or individual who will benefit from your work.
- Outline the Project Plan. Include steps you will take to complete the project, materials needed, and any potential challenges you may face.
- In the Budget section, list all expected costs. Be sure to include any donations or funding sources.
- Seek Approval from your Scoutmaster and the beneficiary. Obtain their signatures on the appropriate lines.
- Once approved, fill out the Timeline section, indicating when you plan to start and finish the project.
- Finally, reflect on your experience in the Project Reflection section. Share what you learned and how the project impacted you and others.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the Eagle Scout Project Workbook?
The Eagle Scout Project Workbook is a crucial document for Scouts working towards earning the Eagle Scout rank. It serves as a planning guide and a record of the project that a Scout must complete. This workbook helps Scouts outline their project, including objectives, materials needed, and steps to complete the project. It also provides space for reflection on the experience and the impact of the project on the community.
Who needs to complete the Eagle Scout Project Workbook?
Every Scout who aspires to achieve the Eagle Scout rank must complete the Eagle Scout Project Workbook. This requirement is part of the Eagle Scout process, ensuring that the Scout has a well-thought-out plan for their service project. It’s not just a formality; it’s a way for Scouts to demonstrate their leadership skills and commitment to community service.
What information is included in the workbook?
The workbook includes several sections that cover different aspects of the project. Scouts will find areas to describe their project idea, identify the goals, list the resources needed, and outline the steps for execution. There are also sections for planning the budget and gathering approval from the appropriate parties. Reflection questions at the end allow Scouts to think critically about their experience and what they learned.
Do I need approval before starting my project?
Yes, obtaining approval is essential before starting the project. Scouts must submit their completed workbook to their Scoutmaster and project coach for review. This ensures that the project meets the requirements for Eagle Scout and aligns with the values of Scouting. Once approved, Scouts can move forward with their project plans.
Can I change my project after submitting the workbook?
Changes can be made to the project even after submission, but it’s important to communicate these changes. If a Scout needs to alter their project significantly, they should consult with their Scoutmaster or project coach. Keeping everyone informed helps ensure that the project remains on track and meets the necessary guidelines.
Is there a deadline for completing the Eagle Scout Project?
While there is no strict deadline for completing the project itself, Scouts must finish all Eagle Scout requirements, including the project, before their 18th birthday. Planning ahead is key. Starting early allows ample time for execution and any unforeseen challenges that may arise during the project.
Where can I find the Eagle Scout Project Workbook?
The Eagle Scout Project Workbook is available on the official Boy Scouts of America website. It can be downloaded for free, allowing Scouts to access the most current version. It’s important to use the latest workbook to ensure compliance with all guidelines and requirements.
Common mistakes
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Not reading the instructions carefully. Many people skip this step, which can lead to confusion later.
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Forgetting to include all required signatures. Missing signatures can delay the approval process.
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Providing vague project descriptions. A clear and detailed description helps convey the project's purpose and scope.
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Neglecting to outline the budget properly. A well-prepared budget shows planning and helps in securing funds.
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Overlooking the timeline. A realistic timeline is crucial for project management and completion.
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Failing to identify and address potential challenges. Anticipating issues can help in finding solutions early.
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Not engaging with the community. Community involvement can enhance the project's impact and support.
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Ignoring the importance of safety considerations. Safety should always be a priority during project planning.
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Submitting the workbook without proofreading. Errors can distract from the project's message and professionalism.
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Not following up after submission. Checking in can ensure that the project is on track for approval.
Documents used along the form
The Eagle Scout Project Workbook is a key document in the Eagle Scout process. However, several other forms and documents are often used in conjunction with it to ensure a smooth project planning and execution process. Below is a list of these documents, along with brief descriptions of each.
- Eagle Scout Rank Application: This form is completed after the successful completion of all Eagle Scout requirements. It serves as a formal application for the Eagle Scout rank and includes details about the scout's achievements.
- Project Proposal: This document outlines the proposed Eagle Scout project before it begins. It includes the project's objectives, timeline, and resources needed, and must be approved by a scout leader and the benefiting organization.
- Letters of Recommendation: These letters are typically required as part of the Eagle Scout application process. They should be written by individuals who can speak to the scout's character, leadership skills, and contributions to the community.
- Final Report: After completing the project, this report summarizes the project’s outcomes, challenges faced, and lessons learned. It serves as a reflection on the experience and is submitted along with the Eagle Scout Rank Application.
These documents collectively support the Eagle Scout's journey and ensure that all necessary information is provided for the review and approval process. Proper completion and submission of these forms are essential for achieving the Eagle Scout rank.
Similar forms
The Eagle Scout Project Workbook is a key document for Scouts working on their Eagle Scout projects. It shares similarities with several other important documents. Here’s a list of four documents that resemble the Eagle Scout Project Workbook:
- Service Project Proposal: This document outlines the plan for a community service project, detailing the objectives, timeline, and resources needed. Like the Eagle Scout Project Workbook, it requires clear planning and approval from a supervising adult.
- Project Budget Sheet: This sheet helps in tracking the financial aspects of a project. Similar to the Eagle Scout Project Workbook, it emphasizes the importance of budgeting and resource management throughout the project.
- Reflection Essay: After completing a project, Scouts often write a reflection essay. This document, like the Eagle Scout Project Workbook, encourages introspection and highlights the lessons learned during the project.
- Scout Leadership Plan: This plan outlines how Scouts will lead their peers during the project. It shares similarities with the Eagle Scout Project Workbook by focusing on leadership skills and teamwork in achieving project goals.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Eagle Scout Project Workbook form, attention to detail is crucial. Here are five important dos and don'ts to consider.
- Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
- Do use clear and concise language when describing your project.
- Do include all necessary signatures and approvals.
- Don't rush through the form; take your time to ensure accuracy.
- Don't forget to keep a copy of your completed workbook for your records.
Misconceptions
Many people have misconceptions about the Eagle Scout Project Workbook form. Understanding the truth behind these beliefs can help scouts and their leaders navigate the process more effectively. Below are eight common misconceptions along with clarifications.
- The workbook is optional. Some believe that completing the workbook is not necessary. In reality, it is a required part of the Eagle Scout application process.
- Only the scout can fill out the workbook. It is a misconception that only the scout should complete the workbook. In fact, input from project leaders and mentors is encouraged and can enhance the project planning.
- All projects must be large and expensive. Many think that Eagle Scout projects must be grand in scale. However, the focus should be on leadership and community service, not on size or cost.
- The workbook must be completed in one sitting. Some believe the entire workbook should be filled out at once. In truth, it can be completed over time, allowing for thoughtful planning and revisions.
- Approval is automatic once the workbook is submitted. There is a misconception that submitting the workbook guarantees approval. In reality, the project must be reviewed and approved by the appropriate council representatives.
- Scouts cannot change their project once the workbook is submitted. Some think that any changes after submission are not allowed. However, modifications can be made if they are discussed and approved by the project coach or council.
- The workbook is only for the scout's benefit. It is often believed that the workbook serves solely the scout. In fact, it also helps the community by documenting the project and its impact.
- Once the project is complete, the workbook is no longer needed. Many assume that the workbook can be discarded after the project is finished. However, it should be retained as part of the scout's permanent record and for future reference.
By addressing these misconceptions, scouts can approach their Eagle Scout projects with greater confidence and clarity. Understanding the requirements and expectations is crucial for success.
Key takeaways
When filling out and using the Eagle Scout Project Workbook form, keep the following key takeaways in mind:
- Understand the Purpose: The workbook serves as a planning tool for your Eagle Scout project. It helps you outline your goals and organize your thoughts.
- Follow the Guidelines: Adhere to the guidelines provided by the Boy Scouts of America. This ensures your project meets the necessary requirements.
- Engage Your Community: Involve community members in your project. Their input can enhance the project's impact and success.
- Document Everything: Keep thorough records of your planning process, including meetings, materials, and expenses. This documentation is crucial for your final review.
- Seek Feedback: Regularly consult with your Scout leader and project advisor. Their feedback can provide valuable insights and help you stay on track.
- Reflect on Your Experience: After completing your project, take time to reflect on what you learned. This reflection is an important part of your growth as a Scout.