Boy Scouts of America Statement on Ineligible Volunteer Files

Date

2012

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Boy Scouts of America

Abstract

Description

There have been instances where people misused their positions in Scouting to abuse children, and in certain cases, our response to these incidents and our efforts to protect youth were plainly insufficient, inappropriate, or wrong. Where those involved in Scouting failed to protect, or worse, inflicted harm on children, we extend our deepest apologies to victims and their families. While it is difficult to understand or explain individuals actions from many decades ago, today Scouting is a leader among youth serving organizations in preventing child abuse. The BSA requires background checks, comprehensive training programs for volunteers, staff, youth and parents and mandates reporting of even suspected abuse. We have continuously enhanced our multi-tiered policies and procedures to ensure we are in line with and, where possible, ahead of society s knowledge of abuse and best practices for prevention. BSA s standards and relentless focus on youth protection have been recognized and praised by experts in child protection - including Victor Vieth, a former prosecutor who heads the National Child Protection Training Center.

Keywords

Child welfare, Communication -- media, juvenile

Citation

DOI