Scouts at the Rhode Island State House – A Day of History, Civics, and Merit Badges

Who - This event is open to Scouts BSA members and registered leaders of Rhode Island Troops only.
Scouts must either be 13 years of age or at least First Class.
Space is limited to registered adult leaders only. We kindly ask for your support in reminding Scouts to uphold the Scout Oath and Law throughout the program.
What - In partnership with the Rhode Island 250 Commission and the Rhode Island Department of State, we are excited to offer a fullday program focused on civic engagement and leadership. The program includes merit badge instruction and a panel discussion with local elected leaders as part of Scouts at the State House—a day dedicated to history, civics, and learning.
Scouts will have the opportunity to earn up to two of the following merit badges:
Citizenship in the Nation – Scouts learn how the federal government works, explore the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizens, and examine how national laws and policies affect daily life.
Pre Reqs. 5, 6 (come prepared to discuss)
Citizenship in the World – This badge focuses on global issues, international cooperation, and understanding different cultures and governments to build global awareness.
Pre Reqs. 3, 4b, 4c, 7
American Business – Scouts explore how businesses operate in the United States, including entrepreneurship, consumer choices, and the role businesses play in the economy.
Pre Reqs. 5
Genealogy – Scouts discover how to research family history, use historical records, and understand how personal stories connect to larger historical events.
Pre Reqs. 2a, 3, 6, 7
Where - Rhode Island State House - 82 Smith St, Providence, RI 02903
Entrance & Parking: Entry is through the Smith Street entrance facing the Capitol Hill complex. Parking is available in the side lot adjacent to the State House in the lower legislative lot off Smith Street on a first come first served basis. Metered parking is also available on Smith, Francis, and Gaspee streets. All attendees will pass through a security checkpoint.
When - Saturday April 11, 2026
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
8:00 AM – Check-in & room assignments
8:30 AM – Welcome remarks
8:40 AM – Session 1 starts
- Citizenship in the World
- Citizenship in the Nation
- Genealogy
- American Business
11:50 AM – Session 1 ends
12:00 PM – Lunch (Bell Room)
12:30 PM – Lunch ends
12:40 PM – Panel Discussion (House Chamber)
1:20 PM – Panel Discussion ends
1:30 PM Session 2 starts
- Citizenship in the World
- Citizenship in the Nation
- Genealogy
- American Business
4:30 PM Session 2 ends / departure
Additional Information
All particpants both youth and adults are required to fill out a photo release, see attached in attachments section on the right side of this page.
As visitors to the State House, Scouts are expected to demonstrate the values of the Scout Oath and Law through their behavior, participation, and responses during all sessions.
Blue Cards will be completed digitally, we expect them to be completed no more than a week following the event. An email with instuctions will be sent to whom completed the registration for the Scout.
Scouts and Leaders should wear Class A Field Uniform
Particpants should bring a non perishable lunch
All participants will receive a patch.





