Is Scouts Canada a faith-based organization?
No, Scouts Canada welcomes all youth and volunteers regardless of their faith, denomination or non-religious personal affirmation.
Scouts Canada upholds the principle that religious instruction is the responsibility of parents and religious authorities.
As we aim to be genuinely inclusive, we have adapted our program and updated our resources to no longer be faith-based.
Currently, we have two Promises: the traditional Promise and a Promise that is not faith-based. We support each member’s right to choose how they vocalize their commitment, and we empower members to recite the Promise that best reflects their personal values.
The dimension of Spirituality within SPICES is a program element where youth explore personal values and beliefs as well as the diversity of cultures and faiths that make up our communities, our nation and our world. Spirituality refers to encouraging the discovery and understanding of your own value system while exploring and reflecting upon the philosophies and attitudes that make up our society today.
We encourage cultural awareness and being curious about other cultural identities because these are traits of well-rounded individuals.
Is Scouts Canada gender inclusive?
Yes, Scouts Canada welcomes youth and Scouters of all genders, including but not limited to those who are transitioning and/or those who are transgender, non-binary, intersex and gender fluid.
We opened in 1907 as the Boy Scouts of Canada & in 1976 we became Scouts Canada. There were several reasons for the change, one of these was gender. In 1974, Rovers became co-ed, followed by Venturers in 1983. All sections were given the option of being co-ed in 1992 and in 1998 the ability to opt-out and remain only open to boys was eliminated.
Today, we welcome and are grateful for our members of all genders!
We recognize that gender-diverse people have faced discrimination for generations and remain one of the most vulnerable groups in our society. We aim to be a safe space for members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community. A place where members can be their authentic selves without fear of judgement.
Being gender inclusive includes respecting the request to be called by a new name and/or the use of personal pronouns. We expect that when youth, volunteers and employees share their changed name or preferred personal pronouns, regardless of age, their identity be accepted with kindness and understanding.
Where do my registration fees go?
Registration fees support the cost of delivering a quality Scouting program in communities across Canada, including:
- Developing dynamic Scouting programs for youth,
- Providing over 20,000 Volunteers with up-to-date training,
- Maintaining high-quality camp facilities in each province, and,
- Supporting Scouts Canada’s No One Left Behind program which reduces financial barriers for families in need.
The true cost to support a robust Scouting program is significantly higher than the registration fee that we charge. This is where Scout Popcorn fundraising, retail sales through our Scout Shops, donations and sponsorships contribute towards keeping Scouting affordable.
Scouting parents consistently give our programs high scores for value, and Scouting costs significantly less than many other youth activities. Add the fact that many Scouting Groups and camps are active year-round and the result is even greater value for dollar.
When does the Scouting year start/end?
The Scouting year runs from January 1st to December 31st. However, if your child is a current member and knows they will continue Scouting next year, and you wish to register early to save your child's spot in their preferred Group – you will have the opportunity to do so starting August 1st, 2024.
New and lapsed members can register for the 2025 Scouting year beginning on September 8th, 2024; by registering in the fall, they benefit from a free Scouting season if space is available in their desired Scouting Group, ahead of their commencement in 2025.
What is the refund policy for the upcoming Scouting Year?
The Scouting year will run from January 1 to December 31. If you registered your child anytime between September 1st and January 1st you can receive a full refund until January 31st. For registrations after January 1st, the standard 30-day refund policy applies. All refunds are issued in the manner in which the original payment was made.
If I register after or on January 1st, up until what date can I request a refund if needed?
Our refund policy allows for refunds within 30 days of an individual’s registration date.
Help Centre
Still, need help? Please feel free to contact the Scouts Canada Help Centre.
