Ever wondered about an organization that fosters leadership, service, and a deep commitment to Scouting ideals? The Order of the Arrow, Scouting's National Honor Society, stands as a testament to these values, shaping young lives and promoting a brotherhood of cheerful service.
Founded in 1915, the Order of the Arrow (OA) has a rich history. It initially began as a camp fraternity, growing in popularity as more camps embraced its programs. By 1934, the OA had become an integral part of the national Boy Scout program. Today, it is a dynamic youth leadership organization within the Boy Scouts of America, dedicated to recognizing and nurturing scouts who embody the Scout Oath and Law.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Foundation | Founded in 1915 |
| Purpose | To recognize scouts and scouters who exemplify the Scout Oath and Law daily, fostering leadership, service, and a brotherhood of cheerful service. |
| Membership | Over 176,000 members strong, with lodges affiliated with over 270 local councils. |
| Scope | A lodge exists in every council across the United States as of August 2018. |
| Leadership | A youth leadership organization within the Boy Scouts of America. Elected youth national officers. Samuel Crowder was elected national chief, Ben Jones as national vice chief for 2025. |
| Membership Levels | The sashes represent the three membership levels in the OA. |
| Headquarters Address | Order of the arrow, s325 1325 west walnut hill lane p.o. |
| Mission | By building upon the foundations of the order of the arrow, the mission of miami lodge 495, through positive youth leadership, will be to promote a true brotherhood of cheerful service by meeting and exceeding goals of the council and the lodge with strong communications, exciting programs, and opportunities for future leadership development |
For those interested in gaining in-depth knowledge on this topic please visit: Order of the Arrow Official Website
The OA's influence stretches across the nation. It counts more than 160,000 active members within lodges that are connected to over 270 local councils throughout Scouting America. The OA's presence is a testament to its widespread impact. The commitment to Scouting principles is strong, with membership requirements that are clearly defined and followed. Unit elections are allowed for scouts, ventures, and sea scout units. OA's presence is notable in all scouting councils across the country.
The Order of the Arrow's mission is multifaceted, but it all boils down to a commitment to serving Scouting and the ideals it embodies. The OAs purpose as scouting's national honor society: The OA's purpose is to promote service, and provide an atmosphere of leadership development for its members. The Order of the Arrow is a national honor society for Scouting. For those wanting to stay informed on the latest events or happenings, the OA provides regular updates on its events, programs and other resources.
Publications are a key component of how the Order of the Arrow keeps its members informed and successful in their roles. Many publications are available online, offering guidance and resources. These publications cover a diverse range of topics, and are revised frequently. Staying up to date with the current edition of these publications ensures members have the most current information and are equipped to perform in their roles. The OA also offers training and leadership opportunities for its members.
The Order of the Arrow is more than just an honor society; it's a community. Members are defined by their dedication to the Scout Oath and Law, providing an encouraging example for others to live up to these ideals. They have the opportunity to participate in various conclaves and summits. Section conclaves are available for members to register, run for office, and learn about the various lodges within their section. Events such as section impact summits are offered to help members develop their leadership skills and make a difference in their communities.
The OA has a rich history, with the history timeline paying tribute to that commitment. The sashes represent the three membership levels in the OA. There are several awards, honors, and membership levels in the order of the arrow, the national honor society of scouting america. The vigil honor may only be bestowed upon brotherhood members. Any of the awards of the order of the arrow (oa) may be presented to an individual regardless of which membership level they have achieved.
The Order of the Arrow holds several publications, which help arrowmen in carrying out the OA program. The publications are an integral tool, ensuring that arrowmen are equipped to succeed in their roles. The Order of the Arrow also offers various events and opportunities for members. The OA also has fellowship weekends for members and candidates.
The Order of the Arrow, founded in 1915, continues to recognize scouts and scouters who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law. The OAs influence extends beyond the local council. Members are defined by their embodiment of the Scout Oath and Law, and by their commitment to service. From Goodman and Edsons time at Treasure Island to the first Order of the Arrow staff at a national jamboree, generations of arrowmen have taken it upon themselves to move the OA forward.
