Which certificates are printed by Scouts Canada and which ones do groups print?
All medals will still be printed and shipped by Scouts Canada while training certificates and Certificates of Commendations are to be printed at the Group level
How do we get Commendation Flashes?
We are currently in the process of mailing Certificate of Commendation flashes to Group Commissioners for their applicable Scouters up until March 31, 2023. Moving forward, Commendation Flashes will be available for purchase at the Scout Shop
How do you get replacement awards that have been lost or stolen?
You can purchase these at the Scout Shop.
How can I get someone a higher-level award than they already have?
There are two ways to elevate a fellow Scouter’s award:
- Though the Thanks button. By using the Thanks Button when they have done something that you appreciated, you can move them up closer to the next award.
- You can also email in a nomination for an award to recognition@scouts.ca
Are all Thanks button submissions counted as equal?
Yes, all submissions are treated equally. The answer is always YES!
Are youth eligible for Thanks button submissions?
Absolutely! All registered members (including Youth) and employees can, and should, be thanked by using the Thanks Button.
How often should Scouters be recognized through the Thanks button?
Of course, there is no maximum, and you will have Scouters in your Groups/Sections who are the backbone of that Group or Section. They should be thanked often. As a minimum, every Scouter should be recognized at least once a year.
Should we be doing more than just the Thanks Button and the National awards?
Yes, every Group should have its own recognition program, which reflects its unique characteristics. The important part is that your Group maintains a culture of appreciation and gratitude for the efforts of your Volunteers—what that looks like, is up to you!
I want to present my Scouter with their years of Service Pins. Where do I get them?
The 5-year and 15-year through 50-year pins are the responsibility of the Groups. You can purchase the pins from the Scout Shop and you can print off the certificates using this link: https://www.scouts.ca/resources/program-resources/recognition.html. If a Group is only ordering a few pins, please contact the Scout Shop directly beforehand (customercare@scouts.ca) to see if they can be shipped in an envelope, which normally costs less than $5.00.
The 10-year Long Service Medal and Flash are sent out to the Group Commissioners when appropriate.
How and when can Groups Stock up on Recognition Items from the Scout Shop?
Starting in Fall 2023 groups will be able to stock up on Recognition items at any time either by placing an individual order or including recognition items in a bulk order for program materials, uniforms, gear, or any other items the group may be purchasing at any given time.
Could these medals be produced in Canada?
It is not cost-effective for the medals to be produced in Canada. Most Canadian medal suppliers manufacture overseas because the cost of producing them in Canada is many times higher. Scouts Canada has partnered with a Canadian company that manufactures in audited factories overseas to keep costs down while maintaining the quality of the product.
Is there a Guide by Scouts Canada covering Recognition?
The Commissioners Handbook for Recognition is an excellent resource.
Who do I go to if I have recognition questions?
Please email recognition@scouts.ca if you have questions or concerns regarding recognition.
Still need help? Please feel free to contact the Scouts Canada Help Centre:
