2025 Bay-Lakes Council Wood Badge 6-635-25

Registration is now open - Secure your spot today!
Early bird pricing ends May 11th!
Why do some Scout units seem to run more smoothly than others? Why do some teams embrace change with confidence, while others struggle? And why do certain individuals navigate packed schedules and unexpected challenges with ease and focus?
It’s not luck, and it’s not something reserved for just a few. What sets these people, teams, and organizations apart is leadership - practiced, intentional, and rooted in purpose. At the personal, team, or organizational level, it starts with someone who has a clear vision, can communicate it effectively, welcomes others into the process, and follows through with determination and heart.
And leadership isn’t just theory - it’s action. At Wood Badge, leadership becomes an adventure.
Step beyond your day-to-day and into a powerful, hands-on experience that challenges your thinking, strengthens your teamwork, and helps you grow in meaningful, lasting ways. It's an adventure filled with learning, connection, reflection, and the kind of fun that makes the lessons unforgettable.
If you're ready to make a greater impact - on your Scout unit, your district, your workplace, or your faith community - Wood Badge is the perfect place to begin that journey.
Why Do We Offer Wood Badge?
To build stronger Scout units.
Wood Badge strengthens your Scouting unit - your child’s unit - by empowering you and your leadership team with the skills, vision, and energy needed to lead more effectively and deliver a truly impactful program.
To have fun and reignite your passion.
Just as our youth grow through fun, challenging, and life-changing adventures, Wood Badge gives you the chance to do the same. It’s your turn to discover, laugh, reflect, and rediscover the spark that brought you to Scouting.
To connect with others.
Wood Badge brings you together with Scouters from across the region, forming a valuable network of like-minded leaders. The relationships you build here will inspire and support you long after the course ends.
To understand the “What” and “Why” of Scouting.
You’ll gain deeper insight into the purpose behind Scouting’s programs and methods - understanding not just how we do things, but why they matter in shaping the next generation.
To gain lifelong skills and perspective.
From communication and conflict resolution to servant leadership and team development, Wood Badge provides practical, real-world tools that stay with you - for Scouting and beyond.
To strengthen every group you lead.
The lessons you take from Wood Badge will enrich not only your Scout unit, but also your workplace, your family, your faith community, and any team you serve.
Wood Badge is an immersive, hands-on leadership course that brings Scouting’s Aims and Methods to life through dynamic team development experiences in an active outdoor setting. Designed for adult leaders, it equips participants with the tools, insights, and confidence needed to deliver a high-quality program that empowers youth to grow into their full potential.
Our Wood Badge adventure covers two weekends: 7:30 am Friday, August 22 - 5:00 pm Sunday, August 24; and 7:00 am Saturday, September 13 - 5:00 pm Sunday, September 14. The course is open to you if you are a registered adult Scouter current in Youth Protection Training and position-trained in your primary Scouting role. Previous Scouting experience is not required: you are encouraged to attend, whether a Cub, Scouts BSA, or Venture leader. At the conclusion of the two weekends you will develop a set of five goals and work with a counselor to complete them within the following 18 months.
Don’t let cost be the reason you miss out on this incredible opportunity. Many Scout units have funds set aside specifically for leader training, and some employers are willing to cover the cost as part of professional development. Additionally, scholarship assistance is available to help offset course fees.
For questions or more information about financial support, please reach out to Course Director Jess Medinger at jessmedinger06@gmail.com - we’re here to help make it possible for you to attend.
You make a difference every day through your leadership. Wood Badge is where you build, refine, and elevate the skills that empower you to lead with greater purpose, impact, and confidence.