Guide to Unit Elections - This guide provides information on Order of the Arrow unit elections to both members and non-members.
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Guide to Unit Elections This guide provides information on Order of the Arrow unit elections to both members and non- members.
Scouting’s Barriers to Abuse
Two-deep leadership for all Order of the Arrow activities must meet the requirements of
Scouting’s Barriers to Abuse, which can be found at www.scouting.org/Training/YouthProtec-
tion.aspx. The relevant portion of this policy is quoted below:
Two registered adult leaders 21 years of age or over are required at all Scouting activi-
ties, including meetings. There must be a registered female adult leader over 21 in every
unit serving females. A registered female adult leader over 21 must be present for any
activity involving female youth. Notwithstanding the minimum leader requirements, age
and program appropriate supervision must always be provided.
Adult Supervision/Coed Activities
Male and female adult leaders must be present for all overnight coed* Scouting trips and out-
ings, even those including parent and child. Both male and female adult leaders must be 21
years of age or older, and one must be a registered member of the BSA
* Please note: If any female is present, of any age, the event is considered coed.
Revised May 2019Contents
Chapter 2: Managing Unit Elections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Resource 1: Sample Letter Announcing Elections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Resource 2: Unit Elections Rules and Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Resource 3: Unit Elections Frequently Asked Questions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Resource 4: Unit Elections Team Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Resource 5: Unit Elections Team Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Resource 6: Unit Elections Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Resource 7: Unit Election Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Resource 8: Unit Election Evaluation Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Resource 9: Adult Candidate Nomination Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Resource 10: Sample Letter to Parents of Candidates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Guide to Unit Elections –i– Order of the Arrow, BSAChapter 2: Managing Unit Elections
The lodge is responsible for conducting unit The unit elections committee performs the fol-
elections in every troop, crew and ship in the lowing functions:
council. All unit members, including non-OA
members, elect those Scouts who best exem- • Reviews the previous unit elections com-
plify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives mittee’s evaluation and decides how to
to become OA members. In this way, member- make improvements.
ship is controlled by the youth in their own • Sets a time period for elections, beginning
units and not by those who are already Arrow- with determining the time of the year when
men. unit elections will be held. The dates must
be set well in advance of the start of the
The Unit Elections Committee election period so that units and lodge/
chapter committees can properly plan.
The unit elections committee sends out infor- Factors to be considered when setting the
mation to all scoutmasters, crew advisors, and time period include the dates of Ordeals
skippers regarding membership in the OA and and other chapter, lodge, district, and
the election procedures. It trains unit elections council Scouting events, the school calen-
teams, schedules visits of elections teams to dar, and holidays. A long election period
units, ensures that the teams conducting the requires maintaining teams over several
elections are well-trained and in proper uni- months which some chapters and lodges
form when conducting the elections, and may find difficult. However, a short election
records the results of the elections. period requires the elections teams to do
more elections in a shorter period thus
The lodge chief appoints a youth Arrowman to increasing the burden on the teams and
be the unit elections committee chair. The unit requiring more teams.
elections chair must have an adviser who is
appointed by the lodge adviser. If the lodge • Informs units well in advance of the elec-
uses chapters, the lodge chief, vice chief, or tion period by sending an email/letter
unit elections chair works with the chapters to announcing unit elections to the unit adult
ensure that each chapter also elects or leader with a copy to the unit’s OA unit
appoints a youth Arrowman to manage unit representative and adviser. (Refer to the
elections at the chapter level. The chapter unit “Sample Letter Announcing Elections”
elections chair must have an adult adviser who resource (page 7).) The email/letter should
is appointed by the chapter adviser. Chapter set out the time of the year when elections
unit elections chairs form the core of the lodge will be held and that only one election can
unit elections committee. be held per year, describe the purpose of
the elections, provide the elections rules
The unit elections committee works closely and procedures, and outline the member-
with the lodge officers responsible for mem- ship requirements for youth and adults. The
bership records, OA unit representatives, call- letter should advise unit leaders how they
outs, and Ordeals. can schedule an election and include an
Guide to Unit Elections –1– Order of the Arrow, BSAAdult Candidate Nomination Form (page able to handle the elections when the units
37). It may be useful to speak to unit lead- request them. Each unit election typically
ers at a district roundtable, reminding them requires two or three members. At any
of the email/letter. Commonly, there will given election, some of the team members
be some unit leaders who fail to respond to may be unable to participate because of
election scheduling requests. This may be other activities.
caused by an incorrect address, forgetful-
ness, or the inherent limitations of email. A • Offers team members the opportunity to
follow-up email or phone call may be nec- provide feedback to the unit elections
essary to receive a response from the unit committee on the quality of support they
leader. Unit leaders who are resistant to received and uses this information to
holding a unit election should be con- improve unit elections the following year.
tacted by the chapter or lodge adviser, who • Sets up a system to contact every scout-
should explain the benefits of the Order of master, crew advisor, and skipper in the
the Arrow to the unit and its members. council and schedule a unit election for all
such units. If a unit has eligible Scouts but
• Organizes and trains unit elections teams does not desire to have an election, the
through recruitment, training, and motiva- chapter or lodge adviser should contact
tion. Serving on a unit elections team is an the unit leader and attempt to discover
excellent way to give a young Arrowman how the OA can better serve this unit. If the
the opportunity to assume a position of unit leader receives better service and sup-
responsibility and leadership. The unit elec- port from the OA in the future, the unit
tions committee should pay special atten- leader may be more receptive to having
tion to the Order of the Arrow members unit elections.
who are participating in unit elections for
the first time and ensure that the training is • Contacts the various elections teams well
well-organized and fun. Training sessions in advance to schedule elections. Works
cover the elections process, rules and hard to avoid situations where an Arrow-
guidelines and help ensure consistency man is called to help with an election at the
between elections teams. The sample Unit last minute and limits the number of elec-
Elections Ceremony (page 29) helps ensure tions each team member is expected to
consistency. The best elections teams can conduct.
deliver an accurate, professional, and
meaningful election ceremony and keep • Conducts all unit elections at troop, crew
the attention of the unit, allowing for effec- or ship meetings. The reason for this is par-
tive communication. The training sessions ticipation: more Scouts attend meetings
can be conducted at chapter meetings, in than summer camp and not all units go to
conjunction with lodge executive commit- council summer camps. This means more
tee meetings or a Lodge Leadership Devel- Scouts have the opportunity to vote and
opment Conference (LLDC), or at a there is a greater chance that all those eli-
separate training event. Food or refresh- gible will be present.
ments could be provided and a game could • Prepares a handout about upcoming
be played during training sessions. (Refer to Ordeal weekends that the unit elections
two resources: the sample Unit Elections teams can leave with unit leaders, OA unit
Ceremony (page 29) and Unit Elections representatives and advisers, and newly
Team Training (page 21).) Supplemental elected candidates (after they have been
practice can help make sure each speaking called out). This handout should give the
part is fully memorized, and this will lead to dates, times, locations, and contact infor-
well-informed, meaningful elections. mation for all upcoming Ordeals.
• Recruits and trains extra team members so • Sets up a system for quickly and reliably
that enough team members will be avail- transmitting the unit elections results
Guide to Unit Elections –2– Order of the Arrow, BSAwhich are recorded on the Unit Election Lodge Adult Selection
Report (page 33) to the appropriate lodge/ Committee
chapter officers. Many chapters/lodges use
email and then mail a backup copy to
The lodge adviser, the chair of the council
ensure that the information is received.
committee on which the lodge adviser serves,
Information on candidates should be
and the lodge staff adviser serve as the lodge
entered in the lodge records as soon as adult selection committee. The committee
possible after the election with “Candidate” reviews the nominations for adult membership
entered where the membership level is received from the unit committees and for
recorded. adults serving in council and district positions.
Those nominated adults that meet the mem-
• Sets up a system to transmit adult nomina- bership requirements for adult unit leaders and
tions to the lodge adult selection commit- council and district adult leaders may be rec-
tee and communicates the committee’s ommended to the Scout executive by the
decisions back to the lodge/chapter and lodge adult selection committee. With the
approval of the Scout executive, who serves as
units. Adults may not be called out until the
Supreme Chief of the Fire, those adults will
lodge adult selection committee approves
become candidates for induction.
them. It is important to maintain the confi-
dentiality of adult nominations to avoid To ensure that the committee has time to act,
embarrassment if a nominated adult is not the lodge adviser may set a minimum period by
recommended by the lodge adult selection which all elections must be held before each
committee or is not approved by the Scout call-out or Ordeal. Those deadlines should be
executive. emphasized in the materials that are provided
to chapters and units. Some lodge adult selec-
• Provides information on youth and adult tion committees may want chapter advisers to
review nominations before the committee
candidates to:
acts. Adults should not be entered into the
lodge records as candidates until after the
• The call-out teams. The names of lodge adult selection committee nominates
adults to be called out should be and the Scout executive approves them. Call-
received from the lodge adult selection out teams need to be provided with the names
committee. of approved adults so that they do not call out
adults whose nominations were not approved
• The lodge chief, chapter chiefs, lodge/ by the committee or Scout executive.
chapter secretaries, and their advisers.
A list of the candidates’ names, unit OA Unit Representative
numbers, email addresses, home
Committee
addresses, and telephone numbers so
that they can encourage candidates’
attendance at the Ordeal. The OA unit representative committee should
play an important part in the unit elections
process. The committee is an excellent source
• The Ordeal committee
of manpower to help conduct unit elections.
The committee should provide OA unit repre-
• The OA unit representatives and advis- sentatives’ and advisers’ contact information to
ers the unit elections committee. The use of email
is an excellent way to communicate with the
• Prepares a written elections evaluation OA unit representatives and advisers. The com-
report after the completion of all unit elec- mittee should also provide the following sup-
tions. port:
Guide to Unit Elections –3– Order of the Arrow, BSA• Contact each OA unit representative and • Assist in conducting the election if needed.
adviser at the start of the unit elections
season and ask them to encourage their • Help complete the Unit Election Evaluation
unit leader to schedule an election and to Form (page 35) and send it to the lodge/
review the elections procedures, which chapter if requested by the unit elections
they should provide. team.
• Follow up with the OA unit representatives
and advisers from units that have not yet Unit Elections Team
scheduled an election.
The unit elections team needs to be prepared
• Send the OA unit representatives and
and do an excellent job when it visits a unit.
advisers information on the date, time, and
Most of the members of the unit will never
location of all upcoming call-out and
become members of the OA. Their experience
Ordeal weekends. Have them promote and
with the OA during the unit elections may be
encourage the newly elected candidates
their only exposure to the OA. The perfor-
and OA members in their unit to attend.
mance of the unit elections team can create a
very positive image of the OA with both the
The OA Unit Representative youth and adult members of the unit. The team
must ensure that elections are meaningful
The unit election is an excellent way to experiences for the Scouts and leaders, for
strengthen the role of the OA unit representa- Arrowmen in the unit who are conducting the
tive. To be successful in this position, a Scout election, and for the new candidates being
needs to establish a robust link with the lodge/ elected.
chapter so that information and resources will
flow both ways. The unit elections team should Recruit the team members well in advance of
coordinate much of the election effort with the the election and practice the election presen-
OA unit representative providing them the tation until all the members of the team know
opportunity for leadership as well as offering all their roles. The OA should be represented by a
the assistance they require. The OA unit repre- two- or three-member team from the lodge or
sentative, with the support of their adviser chapter unit elections committee. All elections
should: team members must be trained and in proper
uniform during the election.
• Ensure that their unit schedules a unit elec-
tion. Three important resources that should be used
by all unit elections teams are included in this
• Talk to all youth members about the pur- guide: the Unit Elections Team Checklist (page
pose of the Order of the Arrow and the cri- 25) (things the unit elections team should do
teria their fellow Scouts should use in before, during, and after each unit election),
voting for those who best exemplify the the Unit Elections Rules and Procedures (page
Scout Oath and Law. 9), and the Unit Elections Frequently Asked
• Help maintain excitement among eligible Questions (page 13).
Scouts before the election.
Immediately after the election the Unit Election
• Contact the members of their unit a few Report (page 33) is completed and signed by
days before the unit election to ensure that the elections team members to certify the
the maximum number of Scouts will par- results.
ticipate.
A Unit Elections Ceremony (page 29) that the
• Contact the OA members in their unit, both unit elections team is strongly encouraged to
youth and adults, a few days before the unit use is found in the resources. This script pro-
election and remind them to attend the vides a standard presentation for all unit elec-
election in full uniform with sash. tions teams to implement. It addresses all of
Guide to Unit Elections –4– Order of the Arrow, BSAthe eligibility requirements and procedures for unit elections. Videos for use by the unit elections team are available on the national OA website at www.oa-bsa.org. These videos can be used as part of the unit elections to provide informa- tion about the Order of the Arrow and explain the unit elections process. Evaluation The feedback received during the unit election process allows the lodge and chapter to learn, not only about the quality of their own unit elections but also about the regard in which the Order of the Arrow is held among the units it serves. After each unit election, the OA unit represen- tative for the unit, with input from their adviser and unit leader, should fill out the Unit Election Evaluation Form (page 35) and return it directly to the unit elections committee chair. The form should be provided with a self-addressed, stamped envelope or a website or email address where the evaluation can be submit- ted. After the election season the unit elections committee should examine all available infor- mation with the goal of improving the quality of the presentations the next year and the overall election process. The committee should prepare a written report that includes the feedback received from the elections teams, unit leaders, the OA unit representative committee and the lodge adult selection com- mittee. It should include an evaluation and cri- tique of the elections process as well as specific recommendations for the next year. By implementing the recommendations from the evaluation process the lodge will realize con- tinuous improvement from year to year. Guide to Unit Elections –5– Order of the Arrow, BSA
Guide to Unit Elections –6– Order of the Arrow, BSA
Sample Letter Announcing Elections
To: Scoutmasters, Advisors and Skippers
From: Order of the Arrow W.W.W., ____________________ Lodge
Subject: Annual Unit Elections
The Order of the Arrow is Scouting’s National Honor Society. It recognizes those who best exemplify the Scout Oath
and Law in their daily lives and, through that recognition, cause others to conduct themselves in a way that warrants
similar recognition, to promote camping, to develop leaders, and to crystallize the Scout habit of helpfulness into a life
purpose of leadership in cheerful service to others.
Each Scouts BSA troop, Venturing crew and Sea Scout ship with qualified Scouts is urged to hold an election not later
than ____________, to select candidates for an Ordeal to be held at _____________________________ on
____________. The date and place of the election are selected by you, as unit leader.
Youth Membership Qualifications
1. Be a registered member of the Boy Scouts of America.
2. At the time of their election, youth must be under the age of 21, hold the Scouts BSA First Class rank, the Ventur-
ing Discovery Award, or the Sea Scout Ordinary rank or higher, and following approval by the scoutmaster, crew
advisor or Sea Scout skipper, be elected by the youth members of their unit.
3. The youth must have experienced 15 nights of camping while registered with a troop, crew or ship within the two
years immediately prior to the election. The 15 nights must include one, but no more than one, long-term camp
consisting of at least five consecutive nights of overnight camping, approved and under the auspices and stan-
dards of the Boy Scouts of America. Only five nights of the long-term camp may be credited toward the 15-night
camping requirement; the balance of the camping (10 nights) must be overnight, weekend, or other short-term
camps of, at most, three nights each. Ship nights may be counted as camping for Sea Scouts.
4. Assistant scoutmasters who are 18, 19 or 20 years old are also considered to be youth members for the purpose
of OA elections. All requirements shown above must be met for a young assistant scoutmaster to be eligible for
election.
Prior to the annual election, the unit leader must certify the nominee’s Scout spirit and youth membership qualifica-
tions. Voting for youth candidates will be based on their spirit of brotherhood, cheerfulness (no matter how tiresome
their duties), and a willingness to give unselfish and wholehearted service to others at all times.
Adult Membership Qualifications
Each year, upon holding a unit election for youth candidates that results in at least one youth candidate being elected,
the unit committee may nominate registered unit adults, 21 years of age or older, to the lodge adult selection commit-
tee. The number of adults nominated can be no more than one-third of the number of youth candidates elected,
rounded up where the number of youth candidates is not a multiple of three. In addition to the one-third limit, the unit
committee may nominate the currently serving unit leader (but not assistant leaders), as long as he or she has served
as unit leader for at least the previous 12 months. Recommendations of the adult selection committee, with the
approval of the Scout executive, will be candidates for induction, provided the following conditions are fulfilled:
1. Selection of the adult is based on the ability to perform the necessary functions to help the Order fulfill its purpose
and is not for recognition of service, including current and prior achievements and positions.
2. The individual will be an asset to the Order because of demonstrated abilities that fulfill the purpose of the Order.
3. The camping requirements set forth for youth members are fulfilled.
4. The adult leader’s membership will provide a positive example for the growth and development of the youth
members of the lodge.
You may return the enclosed postcard or email [address] to notify the lodge of the date and place set aside for the
election of candidates. It should be held at a regularly scheduled unit meeting or camping experience. Every effort
should be made to have 100 percent attendance of both youth and adults at this meeting. An election team from the
Order of the Arrow will be on hand to conduct the election.
Respectfully yours,
Lodge Chief Lodge Adviser
Guide to Unit Elections –7– Order of the Arrow, BSAGuide to Unit Elections –8– Order of the Arrow, BSA
Unit Elections Rules and Procedures
The definitive rules and procedures for unit tered. It is possible for a visiting unit to have
elections are contained in the Guide for Offi- their elected candidates called out at an out-
cers and Advisers. In case of any conflict or of-council summer camp if the lodge serving
ambiguity between items contained in the the camp is willing to conduct the call-out.
Guide to Inductions or the Guide to Unit Elec- The unit leader must present a letter from the
tions and items in the Guide for Officers and home lodge chief and lodge adviser requesting
Advisers, always refer to the Guide for Officers the call-out and identifying the members to be
and Advisers as the definitive document. called out. A signed copy of the home lodge’s
unit election report must accompany this
In Scouts BSA troops, Venturing crews, and Sea request. Following the unit’s return, the home
Scout ships, every registered active member of lodge chief and lodge adviser must receive
the unit under age 21 at the time of election is confirmation of the call-out.
eligible to vote in an Order of the Arrow unit
election; this includes assistant Scoutmasters Newly elected candidates for membership in
who are 18, 19 or 20 years old. the Order of the Arrow must complete the
Ordeal and be inducted into the OA by the
A Scout who carries a current national mem- lodge that serves the council in which the unit
bership card and participates in at least some is chartered. This allows the candidates to
unit activities during the year is considered to bond with their contemporaries as they go
be a registered active member of the unit. For through the Ordeal and creates a positive lead-
example, an assistant scoutmaster or crew or ership environment in which they can prog-
ship members away at college who participate ress. Out-of-council Ordeals are not permitted
in some unit activities when home, such as except when religious custom and observance
campouts, camporees, or occasional unit precludes attendance at the Ordeals of a
meetings, should be considered a registered Scout’s home lodge (e.g., Sabbath-observant
active member. Jewish Scouts). In this special case, the region
A youth who moves away or drops out of the Order of the Arrow chair may be petitioned for
unit because of other interests would not be an exception to permit the Scout to be
counted in the registered active membership inducted by another lodge.
figure.
Unit Election Rules
Elections are only to be held in Scouts BSA
troops, Venturing crews, and Sea Scout ships; 1. The lodge will determine the time of the
elections are not to be held in Cub Scout year unit elections will be held and should
packs. inform unit leaders of this by mail well in
Lodges are encouraged to complete all unit advance. As stated above, lodges are
elections prior to their units going to summer encouraged to complete all unit elections
camp. This ensures that the maximum number prior to their units going to summer camp.
of unit members can be present to vote in the This insures that the maximum number of
election. unit members can be present to vote in the
election. For this reason and to avoid
All elections must be conducted by the OA improper out-of-council unit requests,
lodge of the council in which the unit is char- elections should not be conducted at sum-
tered. No unit may visit outside its council and mer camp.
hold an OA unit election under the auspices of
the OA lodge of another council. 2. The lodge, through the unit elections com-
mittee, should work with the scoutmaster,
Call-outs should be conducted by the OA crew advisor, or skipper in establishing the
lodge of the council in which the unit is char- actual time and place to conduct the elec-
Guide to Unit Elections –9– Order of the Arrow, BSAtion. The Order of the Arrow should be 6. A voter may list on their ballot any combi-
represented by a two- or three-member nation of names, including all eligible can-
team from the lodge or chapter unit elec- didates they believe are worthy to become
tions committee. All OA elections team members of the Order of the Arrow.
members must be trained and in proper
uniform during the election. 7. The OA unit elections team conducts the
election. A unit election ceremony is con-
3. Only one election can be held in a unit tained in the resource section of the OA
each year. Before the election, the unit Website available at oa-bsa.org/resources/
leader must verify to the OA unit elections ucl-support/lodge-program-resource-vid-
team that at least 50 percent of the regis- eos. Stress the following points:
tered active unit membership is present. If
at least 50 percent is not present, an elec- • Select the candidates who, in your
tion cannot be held and the election opinion, have set the best examples of
should be rescheduled. The number of brotherhood, cheerfulness, and service.
registered active members and the number
• Vote only for those you believe will
present are entered in the spaces provided
continue in unselfish service to your
on the Unit Election Report (page 33). If the
unit.
unit leader is a member of the Order, he or
she may explain to the group the purpose • If you feel that no one is worthy, turn in
of the Order of the Arrow and the basis a blank ballot.
upon which candidates should be selected,
and describe the method of election. If the • If you are new in the unit and do not
unit leader is not a member of the Order, a know the candidates well enough to
member of the OA unit elections team vote wisely, you may abstain by not
should make this presentation with the unit turning in a ballot at all; this will not
leader’s consent, demonstrating that elec- affect the final result.
tion leadership is a cooperative effort of the
unit leader and the OA unit elections team. • Youths eligible for election also vote,
and they may vote for themselves if
4. The unit leader provides a list of registered they feel they are worthy.
active members of the unit who meet all
eligibility requirements, including attitude 8. When the voting is finished, the OA unit
and participation. The names of these elections team counts the number of bal-
members are entered on the report form lots turned in and enters the numbers on
and the unit leader signs the certification. It the Unit Election Report.
is important that the list be complete, as
only one election can be held in a unit each 9. The OA unit elections team determines the
year. minimum number of votes one must
receive to be elected, as follows: If the
5. The elections team leader explains the fol- number of ballots turned in was even (2, 4,
lowing to the unit leader: 6, 8, etc.), divide this number by two. If the
number was odd (1, 3, 5, 7, etc.), add one
• This is the current method of election and then divide by two. The number of
approved by the national OA commit- votes a youth must receive to be elected is
tee in use by the lodge. entered on the Unit Election Report.
• All eligible youths who receive votes 10. The elections team and the unit leader
from at least 50 percent of those who count the votes in private. All votes count
turn in ballots are elected. If no one is equally. If at least one has been elected, the
elected, a second vote may be held election result is final. The OA team places
immediately, and the result of this vote a check mark next to the names of those
will be final. who have been elected.
Guide to Unit Elections – 10 – Order of the Arrow, BSA11. If no one is elected, the OA team more than one-third of the number of youth
announces this fact and states that the unit candidates elected, rounded up where the
will now be given the opportunity to vote number of youth candidates is not a multiple of
again. Time is allowed for further explana- three. In addition to the one-third limit, the unit
tion of the purpose of the Order of the committee may nominate the currently-serv-
Arrow and the election procedures, and for ing unit leader (but not assistant leaders), as
any questions. No information about the long as they have served as unit leader for at
votes received by candidates is to be least the previous 12 months. The lodge should
revealed at any time. The second ballot is set up a system to transmit adult nominations
then held immediately, and if the unit still to the lodge adult selection committee and the
elects no one, this is the final result for this committee’s decisions back to the lodge,
year’s election. chapter, and units. Adults may not be called
out until the lodge adult selection committee
Announcement of results. As soon as the elec- recommends and the Scout executive
tion is completed, the unit leader may or may approves them. Maintain the confidentiality of
not choose to announce to the entire unit the adult recommendations to avoid embarrass-
names of members who have been elected. ment if a nominated adult is not recommended
Names, mail and email addresses, and phone by the lodge adult selection committee or is
numbers of the newly elected candidates must not approved by the Scout executive.
be forwarded to the lodge membership com- Membership requirements. Consult the Guide
mittee immediately. Candidates will be called for Officers and Advisers for youth, adult and
out at the earliest possible time, either at a res- professional membership qualifications.
ident camp, a camporee, or a special cere-
mony Honorary and life membership. Honorary or
life membership in the Order of the Arrow are
Candidate status. After election, Scouts and not allowed. See the Guide for Officers and
adults remain candidates until completion of Advisers.
the Ordeal and Ordeal ceremony. If this period
of candidacy exceeds one year, the candidate’s
name will be dropped. To become candidates
again, they must be re-elected.
The executive committee of the lodge may
extend the one-year limit between election
and induction if a candidate is ill or there are
other unusual circumstances.
If a candidate permanently relocates to a new
BSA council prior to completing the Ordeal,
the candidate should immediately join a unit in
the new council. A copy of the election report
must be presented to the new unit leader to
arrange induction in the new lodge. The candi-
dacy period is not restarted or extended.
Adult recommendations. Each year, upon
holding a unit election for youth candidates
that results in at least one youth candidate
being elected, the unit committee may nomi-
nate registered unit adults, 21 years of age or
older, to the lodge adult selection committee
for approval to be candidates for induction.
The number of adults nominated can be no
Guide to Unit Elections – 11 – Order of the Arrow, BSAGuide to Unit Elections – 12 – Order of the Arrow, BSA
Unit Elections Frequently Asked Questions
The definitive rules and procedures for unit 3. A Scout who recently joined my unit
elections are contained in the Guide for Offi- camped a lot in their previous unit. Should
cers and Advisers. In case of any conflict or that camping be counted when deciding if
ambiguity between the Guide to Inductions or they can be listed on the election ballot for
the Guide to Unit Elections and the Guide for my unit’s election?
Officers and Advisers, always refer to the Guide
for Officers and Advisers as the definitive docu- A. Yes. All BSA camping done by a Scout in the
ment. program area for which they are being
considered for election (see question 4 for
1. When does a Scout have to earn their exception) counts towards the camping
Scouts BSA First Class rank, to become eli- portion of the membership qualifications,
gible for election? as long as the camping was within the last
two years.
A. The Guide for Officers and Advisers says: 4. A Scout in my Scouts BSA troop is also
registered in a Venturing crew or Sea
... At the time of their election, youth Scout Ship. Can camping trips with the
must be under the age of 21, and hold crew or ship count towards the camping
one of the following ranks corre- requirement?
sponding to the type of unit in which
they are being considered for elec- It is preferred that camping requirements
tion: Scouts BSA First Class rank, the be met as part of the unit in which the
Venturing Discovery Award, or the youth is being considered for election (i.e.,
Sea Scout Ordinary rank or higher ... troop, crew, or ship); however, extenuating
circumstances may exist (e.g., in cases
To ensure that the Scout will be able to where a youth did not have an opportunity
handle the challenges of the Ordeal week- to meet the requirement with the unit), that
end and to uphold the OA’s standing as make it appropriate for unit leaders to con-
Scouting’s national honor society, each sider other BSA camping experiences (e.g.,
candidate must have passed a board or a Venturer counting camping nights com-
bridge of review for the First Class rank, pleted with a troop or camping nights
Venturing Discovery Award, or the Sea completed while serving as a staff member
Scout Ordinary rank before the election is at a council camp or national high adven-
held. Any Scout who has passed their board ture base). In each case, the unit leader
or bridge of review meets this requirement, must satisfy themselves the spirit and intent
even if the award has not been formally of the requirement was met (i.e., it was
presented, such as at a court of honor. indeed qualifying outdoor camping).
2. Can a Scout use the same camping nights 5. If a Scout goes to summer camp and a
towards the requirements of Camping jamboree in the same summer, how do
merit badge and for the OA camping these count towards the camping require-
requirement? ment?
A. The Guide for Officers and Advisers says:
A. Yes. While the Scouts BSA advancement
program often prohibits one action or Have experienced 15 nights of Boy
event from counting towards two different Scout camping while registered with
requirements, camping nights can be a troop, crew or ship within the two
counted towards both Scouts BSA years immediately prior to the elec-
advancement and the OA camping tion. The 15 nights must include one,
requirement. but no more than one, long-term
Guide to Unit Elections – 13 – Order of the Arrow, BSAcamp consisting of at least five con- 8. My unit attends summer camp for five days
secutive nights of overnight camp- and four nights. Can that count towards
ing, approved and under the auspices the camping requirement?
and standards of the Boy Scouts of
America. Only five nights of the A. The camping requirement for long-term
long-term camp may be credited camps is a minimum of five nights, so three
toward the 15-night camping nights of this could be counted as a short-
requirement; the balance of the term camp.
camping (10 nights) must be over- 9. What does “... under the auspices of the
night, weekend, or other short-term Boy Scouts of America” mean in the camp-
camps of, at most, three nights each. ing requirement?
Ship nights may be counted as
camping for Sea Scouts. [emphasis A. It means: Camping conducted within the
added] guidelines of the Boy Scouts of America,
amongst other things, to conduct the pro-
Only one long term camp can be used gram in accordance with the Guide to Safe
towards the camping requirement. For a Scouting and all youth protection guide-
Scout who attends summer camp and a lines, and, if water sports are conducted,
jamboree in the same year, five nights of using Safe Swim Defense and the buddy
the time at summer camp or at the jambo- system, and all other policies in force not
ree (but not both) can be used towards the specifically listed here. Ultimately, the local
camping requirement. Ten more nights of council is the final arbiter of whether an
short-term camp would also be required to encampment is in compliance and there-
meet the camping requirement in order to fore under the auspices of the BSA.
reach the 15 nights requirement.
10. I went on several camping trips when I was
6. Does the long term camp have to be at my registered as a Webelos den leader and
council’s camp? before I registered as an assistant Scout-
A. Camping at a council’s own camp(s) is not master. Can those trips count towards the
part of the national requirements for eligi- OA camping requirement?
bility for election to the Order of the Arrow. A. The Order of the Arrow’s membership eli-
Any “long-term camp ... approved and gibility requirements focus on youth regis-
under the auspices and standards of the tered in Scouts BSA, Venturing, or Sea
Boy Scouts of America” meets this portion Scouts, and the camping requirement must
of the camping requirement. be fulfilled through camping done while a
Councils and lodges should conduct elec- Scout in one of those three programs.
tions in any unit that requests one, without Because of this, time spent camping as a
regard to where the unit attends summer Cub Scout does not count towards OA eli-
camp. gibility. This makes sense when we con-
sider another requirement, which is that
7. Does the camping have to be with a election candidates hold the Scouts BSA
Scout’s unit? First Class rank, the Venturing Discovery
Award, or the Sea Scout Ordinary rank or
A. Camping does not have to be with a higher, and work towards these rank or
Scout’s unit. For example, participation in a award requirements cannot begin until
seven day, six night National Youth Leader- becoming a member of a Scouts BSA
ship Training course should be considered troop, Venturing crew, or Sea Scout ship.
a “long-term camp” as would attendance at
summer camp with another troop. (How- Similarly, camping done by unit adults only
ever only five nights of the long-term camp counts towards OA membership when the
count towards the fifteen nights of camp- adults are registered as Scouts BSA, Ventur-
ing requirement.) ing, or Sea Scout leaders. Thus, camping
Guide to Unit Elections – 14 – Order of the Arrow, BSAdone while registered as a Cub Scout 14. As a unit leader, how do I determine which
Webelos den leader does not count youths are active and thus count for pur-
towards OA eligibility (unless the adult is poses of determining if a quorum is pres-
also registered in a troop, crew or ship at ent for an election?
the time).
A. The Guide for Officers and Advisers says:
11. We have an adult assistant Scoutmaster
Registered active member. In Scouts
who is two nights shy of the camping
BSA troops, Venturing crews, and Sea
requirement. Youth elections are next
Scout ships, every registered active
week. Most likely two Scouts will be
member of the unit under age 21 at
elected (one of them the assistant Scout-
the time of election (including assis-
master’s son). Five days after the youth
tant Scoutmasters who are 18, 19 or
election the assistant Scoutmaster will
20 years old) is eligible to vote.
have met the camping requirement. Can
the troop committee nominate the assis- A Scout who carries a current
tant Scoutmaster several days after the national membership card and par-
youth election? ticipates in at least some unit activi-
ties during the year is considered to
A. The Guide for Officers and Advisers says: be a registered active member of the
unit. For example, a youth away at
“Each year, upon holding a unit elec- college who participates in some unit
tion for youth candidates that results activities when home, such as a cam-
in at least one youth candidate being pout, camporee, or occasional unit
elected, the unit committee may meeting, should be considered a reg-
nominate adults to the lodge adult istered active member.
selection committee...”
A youth who moves away or drops
In many units, the unit committee meets out of the unit because of other inter-
once or twice a month, so adult nomina- ests would not be counted in the reg-
tions may follow the youth election by as istered active membership figure.
much as a few weeks. Adults must meet
the eligibility requirements when the unit As an example, a Scout who hasn’t partici-
committee makes its decision on whom to pated in unit activities in several months
nominate, not at the time of the youth and who cannot be reached to confirm
election. that they have dropped out of the unit
should not be counted as a member of the
12. Do youths have to be present for an elec- unit when deciding if at least 50 percent of
tion, or can they participate by phone or the registered active unit membership is
Skype or vote through an absentee ballot? present.
A. All youths must be physically present to 15. Can a unit conduct its own election?
vote in a unit election. Voting by phone, A. The Guide for Officers and Advisers says:
Skype, absentee ballot, etc. is not permitted
in unit elections. Induction: Election to Ordeal
13. Do youths have to be present to be placed 2. The lodge, through the unit elec-
on the election ballot and be elected? tions committee, should work
with the unit leader in establish-
A. No. All Scouts who meet the eligibility ing the actual time and place to
requirements should be included on the conduct the election. The OA
election ballot, even if some of these should be represented by a two-
Scouts are not present when the election is or three-member team from the
being held. lodge or chapter unit elections
Guide to Unit Elections – 15 – Order of the Arrow, BSAcommittee. All elections teams on a pre-printed ballot is appropriate. Here
must be trained and in proper is a sample:
uniform during the election.
Please place a check next to the name of
The lodge is responsible for making sure each candidate who you believe is wor-
that elections teams are properly trained, thy to become a member of the Order of
so it’s important that units not conduct the Arrow.
their own elections.
_____ Jeff Scout
16. What’s the status in the OA of assistant
_____ José Star
Scoutmasters who are under age 21?
_____ Dhairya Eagle
A. Young adults ages 18 through 20 are con-
sidered youth members of the Order of the _____ All of the above
Arrow. Because of this, assistant Scoutmas-
If you feel that no one is worthy, turn in
ters who are 18, 19 or 20 years old and who
an unmarked ballot.
meet the youth eligibility requirements
should be included on election ballots If you do not know the candidates well
whenever an election is held in a troop, and enough to vote wisely you may abstain
these young adults should be allowed to by not turning in a ballot at all. This will
participate in the election in the same not affect the final result.
manner as youth members under age 18.
Once inducted, these young adults may
19. Can a unit leader or council add require-
participate fully in the Order of the Arrow
ments to the national OA requirements for
as youth members, until their 21st birthday.
election?
Similarly, Sea Scouts and Venturing crew
members ages 18 through 20 are consid- A. No, a scoutmaster, crew advisor, or skipper
ered youth members for the purposes of (or unit committee, district, council, chap-
OA elections, ter or lodge) has no authority to change
the requirements for election to the Order
17. Can a unit use pre-printed ballots in an of the Arrow, just as they have no authority
election? to change the Eagle Scout or other rank
requirements. However, a unit leader does
A. Yes. However, care must be taken to ensure have the responsibility to certify that the
that all candidates’ names appear on the unit’s Scouts have met the national eligibil-
ballot. Excluding a candidate’s name and ity requirements before submitting their
having it “written in” during the election is names for the ballot for the unit’s election.
inappropriate since this may prevent a fair
opportunity for this candidate to be 20. What is the unit leader’s role in a unit elec-
elected. If it is discovered that an eligible tion?
candidate’s name is missing from a pre-
printed ballot, blank ballots should be used A.The Guide for Officers and Advisers says:
instead. Membership Requirements
18. Can “All of the above” be included as a Unit leader approval. To become eli-
choice on a pre-printed ballot? gible for election, a Scout must be
registered with the Boy Scouts of
A. Yes. A voter may list on their ballot any America and have the approval of
combination of names, including all eligible their unit leader immediately prior to
candidates who they believe are worthy to the election. The unit leader must
become members of the Order of the certify their Scout spirit (i.e., their
Arrow so having an “all of the above” box adherence to the Scout Oath and Law
Guide to Unit Elections – 16 – Order of the Arrow, BSAand active participation in unit activ- 21. Can a unit leader adjust the results of the
ities). The unit leader must also cer- youth election results before the results
tify that the nominee meets all are announced?
specified requirements at the time of
this annual election. A. After the youths have voted, the unit leader
cannot adjust the results of the election.
Induction: Election to Ordeal The Guide for Officers and Advisers says
that lodge rules must include this standard
4. The unit leader provides a list of rule:
all registered active members of
the unit who meet all eligibility Rule III.A. The requirements for
requirements, including attitude membership in this lodge are as
and participation. stated in the current printing of the
Order of the Arrow Handbook and the
The unit leader holds the responsibility of Order of the Arrow Guide for Officers
certifying a Scout’s eligibility before place- and Advisers.
ment on an Order of the Arrow election
The “Induction: Election to Ordeal” section
ballot. The unit leader’s certification is as of
of the Guide for Officers and Advisers,
the date of the election, and any Scout
details the procedure to be used for elec-
who meets the camping and other require-
tions. Voting by unit leaders or adjusting
ments as of that date should be listed on
the results of the youth votes is not part of
the election ballot. This approval is not one
the procedure and therefore is not allowed.
of preferential treatment or specific selec-
tion for membership rooted in the unit However, the unit leader is not an ineffec-
leader’s own vision, but one of qualifying a tive actor with regard to OA unit elections.
candidate for eligibility. By including a Here is what one successful, long-term
Scout’s name on the list of those whose unit leader did. He reports that he was
names should appear on an election ballot, never disappointed with the wisdom of the
the unit leader certifies that: voters:
• The Scout is a currently registered I made the OA unit election a yearlong
active member of the unit (troop, crew, process of encouraging the Scouts in
or ship) the unit to participate in the OA’s activi-
ties, and always made sure a youth
• The Scout exhibits Scout spirit by living member (the OA Unit Representative)
in accordance with the Scout Oath and got up and explained what the event
Law was being held, and ensured that our
unit youth leaders had a copy of the
• The Scout fulfills all other Order of the chapter and lodge calendar to be sure
Arrow membership requirements that they did not schedule any events in
conflict with the published OA calen-
Clearly, the unit leader’s approval is earned dar. This calendar exercise alone put
through merit in Scouting. The unit leader the OA events front and center in the
has two roles with the OA: an administra- minds of the unit youth leaders once a
tive certification that the objective require- month.
ments are met and a more judgment-
oriented one with the Scout spirit require- Beyond talking about the OA and their
ment that the Scout, in their opinion, has events, I would follow up the Unit Rep’s
been a “good Scout” and lives up to the presentation by telling the unit “why”
obligations taken in the Scout Oath and the OA did these things. Often, I would
Scout Law. This requirement helps to include discussions of service and the
uphold the high standard that OA member- concept of servant leadership in my
ship warrants. Scoutmaster minutes.
Guide to Unit Elections – 17 – Order of the Arrow, BSAThen, six weeks before the election, as ballot so all can see, and be sure they
soon as our youths scheduled the come see the advancement committee
chapter elections team to come to the member present, if we do not show
meeting, I would begin a series of short them as qualified, when they think they
comments in each meeting or cam- may be. Address the “popularity con-
pout describing the OA and what it was test” aspect of the election as some-
about. It went like this: thing to avoid, and call on their higher
angels to identify each person who
Six weeks out: Bring in a copy of James lives the Scout Oath and Law in the
Fennimore Cooper’s book, The Last of meeting.
the Mohicans and explain that the OA
had roots in great American literature. Election night: Introduce the elections
See what they know about it. team and reiterate the purpose of the
OA. Explain that the OA is the only
Five weeks out: Show a video I com-
organization in Scouting where the
piled on The Last of the Mohicans
non-members choose the members,
movie... and take questions about the
and reinforce that I have authorized this
Delaware Tribe... Get out a map of the
ballot because I believe these Scouts
Great Northeast and show the range of
are qualified and worthy of consider-
the Delaware.
ation.
Four weeks out: Introduce the concept
of service. Bring in my 1914 handbook Of course, every situation is different,
and show the Scouts the chapter on but over the years, our unit’s Scouts
chivalry and let them see the original chose a wide range of Scouts, but I was
drawing of a Scout helping an old lady never disappointed. I made it a year
cross the street. round education process, so never was
tempted to have to adjust the will of
Three weeks out: Remind them of their the Scouts. I spent my time adjusting
slogan, to do a good turn daily, and see their thinking to what would serve the
if any Scouts have examples of ones unit and the OA best. It worked.
they might share with the group. Ask
them to be sure to do this in the com- 22. How do you keep the elections from being
ing week. a popularity contest? Some Scouts who
meet the requirements and definitely have
Two weeks out: Talk about the OA and the qualities of a true Scout are not
ask three or four Scouts who are mem- elected. They meet the qualifications year
bers to speak for two to three minutes after year. Even the other Scouts are sur-
each about what to look for in a mem- prised certain Scouts are never elected.
ber, drawing on the above. Ask the
Scouts to give you specific examples of A. The unit elections chair from the local
acts of kindness that have been per- lodge or chapter might be invited to come
formed by the unit members. Include and talk to the Scouts about the Order of
as many Scouts in this as you can... you the Arrow, rather than relying solely on the
can suggest those squeamish or awk- OA Elections video. Nationally, many of our
ward Scouts who you believe may be most successful chapters and lodges have
overlooked, but you feel are worthy. noticed that this practice, especially when
Scouts will know if you are honest in the unit leader is also invited to comment,
this... or campaigning, so just speak makes those in the unit recognize the
from your heart as the Scouts do most founding ideals of the OA and helps to take
of the talking about their fellows. away consideration of other factors.
One week out: Specifically talk with In May 2008 the Order of the Arrow distrib-
them about the ballot, post the draft uted an Operations Update which included
Guide to Unit Elections – 18 – Order of the Arrow, BSAa Unit Elections section on page 3. Its rec- sion. The unit leader should offer the
ommendations have been used effectively eligible candidates the opportunity to
in a number of units around the country. “opt out” of being on the annual ballot
Here is a quote from the Operations prior to its printing.
Update to further address the question:
This procedure has been tried and tested. It
Electing candidates from medium to produces 50% to 100% better election
large size units can be a challenge. The results and is worthy of your consideration.
basic problem is that many Scouts,
especially the older ones, don’t really 23. Can you help me better understand the
know the younger Scouts and are number of unit adults who can be nomi-
reluctant to vote for them. This can be nated when a unit conducts an election?
a significant problem especially with
A. The Guide for Officers and Advisers says:
youths who are quiet and introverted.
Noticing their low election results, a Each year, upon holding a unit elec-
number of unit leaders have developed tion for youth candidates that results
a procedure to directly address this sit- in at least one youth candidate being
uation. It has produced significant elected, the unit committee may
improvements in the election results in nominate adults to the lodge adult
these units. Some unit leaders selection committee, composed of
announce the youth’s rank/award, the lodge adviser, the chair of the
number of nights of camping, and ser- council committee on which the
vice hours as the names are read. Oth- lodge adviser serves, and the lodge
ers include similar information on the staff adviser. The number of adults
ballot of names. Another technique is nominated can be no more than one-
to print the individual Scouting record third of the number of youth candi-
of each candidate, listing their name, dates elected, rounded up where the
school grade, rank/award, number of number of youth candidates is not a
merit badges (if applicable), summer multiple of three. In addition to the
camp years, camping nights, leadership one-third limit, the unit committee
positions held, and special awards or may nominate the currently serving
events attended. Regardless of the pro- unit leader (but not assistant leaders),
cedure used, the purpose of this is to as long as they have served as unit
help the unit members know some- leader for at least the previous 12
thing about the candidates before they months.
vote. It works and produces much bet- So, as long as the adults meet the camping
ter election results. and other requirements, this chart can be
The scoutmaster, crew advisor, or skip- used:
per still decides the names to appear
on the ballot, listing only those who No. of Maximum No. of
Youths Adults That Can
have demonstrated Scout spirit and
Elected be Nominated
who meet the OA eligibility require-
ments. A Scout whose name is being 0 0
withheld because of Scout spirit needs 1 1 + unit leader
to be told why in advance. Also, some 2 1 + unit leader
Scouts may not be interested in 3 1 + unit leader
becoming OA members. The unit 4 2 + unit leader
leader should have a conversation with
those youth who are not interested in
5 2 + unit leader
becoming an OA member to under- 6 2 + unit leader
stand the reasoning behind that deci- 7 3 + unit leader
Guide to Unit Elections – 19 – Order of the Arrow, BSANo. of Maximum No. of If a Scout was incorrectly inducted, the
Youths Adults That Can Scout should be allowed to retain mem-
Elected be Nominated bership in the Order of the Arrow. The
Scout should be counseled about the cir-
8 3 + unit leader cumstances with guidance from their unit
9 3 + unit leader leader and the chapter or lodge adviser so
10 4 + unit leader that they can help the Scout mature, par-
11 4 + unit leader ticipate, and be successful in the Order of
12 4 + unit leader the Arrow.
And so forth 26. I’m a chapter adviser. A chapter elections
24. What is the role of the unit leader (scout- team recently conducted an election for a
master, crew advisor, or skipper) and the unit in my chapter and three Scouts were
unit committee chair in signing the adult elected. The day after the election, the unit
nomination form? Do they decide which leader contacted me to ask for a supple-
adults get nominated or does the unit mental election because he accidentally
committee make the decision? left some Scouts off the list of those eligi-
ble for election. Can the chapter arrange
A. The Guide for Officers and Advisers says: for another election?
A. Election policy is set by the national OA
Each year, upon holding a unit elec- committee to ensure uniformity across the
tion for youth candidates that results nation. One longstanding policy is that a
in at least one youth candidate being unit may have only one election per year.
elected, the unit committee may While it’s regrettable that the unit leader did
nominate adults to the lodge adult not provide a complete list of eligible
selection committee, composed of Scouts for the election that was held,
the lodge adviser, the chair of the national policy does not permit an addi-
council committee on which the tional election to be held to address the
lodge adviser serves and the lodge issue.
staff adviser.
The unit committee decides which adults
are nominated, and the unit leader and unit
committee chair sign on behalf of the
committee and its decision.
25. What should our lodge do if a unit leader
mistakenly certifies a Scout as eligible for
election when they are not eligible and
that Scout is subsequently called out?
A. If a Scout was incorrectly elected, but not
called out, do not add them to the list of
those to be called out. Have the unit leader
counsel the Scout and explain to them that
a mistake was made. Encourage the Scout
to remain involved and committed so that
they may appear on next year’s ballot.
If a Scout was incorrectly called out but not
inducted, do not induct them, and, again,
have that unit leader conference.
Guide to Unit Elections – 20 – Order of the Arrow, BSAYou can also read
