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Section Sentinel: Section Chiefs: Recruit OAHA Participants, Attend Free of Charge

        Section Sentinel

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Each year, the OA’s High Adventure programs need help filling slots with Arrowmen looking for a new and challenging summer experience. Now section chiefs can get rewarded for their work sharing the exciting opportunity of OAHA with others. 

Throughout a section chief’s term, if he is able to recruit five or more Arrowmen to register and be accepted to an OA High Adventure program, then the section chief will be able to attend a program of his choosing, free of charge. Once a section chief has inspired these Arrowmen to attend, he must submit a list of these Arrowmen to OA Associate Director Matt Dukeman for confirmation. Upon receipt, Dukeman will follow-up with the section chief on other aspects of the registration process. 

Last summer, four section chiefs took advantage of this program. Former NE-5B Section Chief Michael Shostek was one of those Arrowmen, as he was able to attend OA Ocean Adventure at the Florida Sea Base. Promotions on the section’s Facebook page, as well as engaging with Arrowmen at lodge and section events helped bolster attendance for NE-5B, which had been historically low for the Northeast Region. 

“The incentive not only promotes the fostering of youth leadership development through adventure but also enriches your own Scouting experience through reflection, challenge and reward on a once-in-a-lifetime trip,” Shostek said. “Now, Arrowmen who have attended these programs are returning to our section’s chapters and lodges with newfound skills and knowledge, as well as the passion to encourage Arrowmen to seek cheerful service through a rewarding adventure.” 

Currently, registration for 2015 OA High Adventure programs are open and slots are filling quickly. Participation in an OA High Adventure program will fulfill a requirement under the personal growth category of the Arrowman Service Award for youth Arrowmen under 21. Visit adventure.oa-bsa.org for more information, including new online applications and packing lists for the programs, check out the OA High Adventure Facebook page for special highlights of the programs and explore the OA High Adventure promotion best practice page for tips and tricks on how to excite Arrowmen about this remarkable experience. 

Do not miss out on the opportunity for you and Arrowmen in your section to canoe the Boundary Waters, sail the Florida Keys, hike at Philmont Scout Ranch or zipline the Summit Bechtel Reserve with Arrowmen from all around the nation. Start promoting these programs within your section today!