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THE AIMS AND METHODS OF SCOUTING
A goal of the Boy Scouts of America is to help boys develop into honorable men. In keeping with this goal the objectives of Troop 1412's program are the same. In carrying out our program we aim to foster the following ideals in each Scout:

Development of Character
This can be defined as personal qualities, values, and outlook. We help a boy grow in self-reliance, self-discipline, self-confidence, and self-respect. We instill in them ethical practices as expressed in the Scout Oath and Law.

Participatory Citizenship
This is accomplished by expecting the boy to cooperate with others by living and working in a troop which has rules based on the common good. On a broader scale, he is encouraged to learn and take pride in his
national heritage, develop an understanding of the social, economic, and governmental systems of which he belongs. We value the ever-changing diversity of the Troop and we promote an awareness of the Scout’s
obligation people of differing backgrounds. Cultural and environmental awareness is also emphasized through a variety of outings, training sessions, and service projects.

Development of Mental, Physical and Emotional Fitness
In our active Troop, the Scout will be encouraged to work toward the goals of improved physical condition and good health habits. Adult Troop leaders will promote mentally and emotionally well-balanced behavior.
The Scout will be trained to use good judgment and be resourceful in solving problems.

To accomplish these aims Boy Scouting uses the following eight methods to meet boys’ hope for fun and adventure.

Method 1 – THE IDEALS of Scouting are spelled out in the Scout Oath, Law, Slogan and Motto. The Troop measures the Scout against these ideals and continually encourages him to improve.

Method 2 – THE PATROL method gives the Scout an experience in group living and participatory citizenship. It places a certain amount of responsibility on young shoulders and shows boys how to accept it.

Method 3 – THE OUTDOORS is where Boy Scouting takes place! It is in the outdoors that Scouts share responsibilities and learn to live with each other. It is here that the skills and activities practiced at Troop meetings come alive with purpose.

Method 4 - ADVANCEMENT provides a series of surmountable obstacles and steps to overcome them. The Scout plans his advancement and progresses at his own pace as he overcomes each challenge. The Scout is rewarded for each achievement, which helps him gain self–confidence. The steps in the advancement system help a boy grow in self–reliance and in the ability to help others.

Method 5 - ADULT ASSOCIATION is how boys learn from the example set by their adult leaders. We encourage both men and women to become Scout leaders. Associating with adults of high character is encouraged at this stage of a young man's development. The Troop takes very seriously the need for quality adult role models and enforces all BSA policies regarding “Youth Protection”.

Method 6 - PERSONAL GROWTH occurs as Scouts plan their activities and progress towards their goals. The Good Turn concept is a major part of the personal growth method of Scouting. Boys grow as they participate in
community service projects and do Good Turns for others. The religious emblems program (e.g., God and Country Award) can also be a large part of a Scouts personal growth by connecting the Scouting Program with his religious training.

Method 7 - LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT encourages boys to learn and practice leadership skills. Every Scout has the opportunity to participate in both shared and total leadership situations. Understanding the concept of leadership helps a boy accept the leadership roles of others and guides him toward the citizenship aim of Scouting. Troop 1412 encourages parents and adult leaders to stand back and let the Scouts run the Troop as much as possible.

Method 8 – THE UNIFORM makes the Scout Troop visible as a force for good and creates a positive youth image for the boy in the community. Wearing the uniform is an action that shows each Scout's commitment to the aims and purposes of Scouting. The uniform gives the Scout identity in a world brotherhood of youth that believe in the same ideals. The common uniform identifies the Troop as a team.