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Joint Council Information Session
General FAQs
Why are Theodore Roosevelt and Suffolk County Councils considering a merger?
The Councils are exploring a merger to address shared challenges, such as declining membership, volunteer shortages, and financial constraints—issues affecting Scouting nationwide. The primary goal is to strengthen Scouting on Long Island by combining resources and enhancing support for local programs.
Will any camps or Scout Shops be closed as part of increased collaboration or a possible merger?
No, there are no plans to close any camp, service centers, or scout shops.
We will own and operate three year-round camp facilities; Baiting Hollow Scout Camp, Schiff Scout Reservation, and Onteora Scout Reservation.
The Doucette Scout Leadership Center will serve as the Council Headquarters, featuring a Scout Shop.
The current Farmingville location will serve as a satellite Service Center for staff and volunteer support and also feature a Scout Shop.
How might a merger affect local volunteers?
Volunteers will gain access to more training opportunities, enhanced digital communication tools and simplified administrative processes. These improvements will enable them to dedicate more time to delivering high-quality programs for Scouts.
How could this merger help with declining membership?
A unified message across Long Island would strengthen Scouting’s brand, making it more visible and appealing to families and simplify recruitment and retention efforts, ultimately supporting membership growth.
How would a merger benefit Scouts directly?
Scouts would benefit from expanded programs with a wider range of activities, events, and resources.
These enhancements could also strengthen community partnerships, improve volunteer support and attract increased funding from local businesses, ultimately enriching the Scouting experience.
Managing a larger geographic area presents challenges for training and meetings, making it essential to explore technological solutions. As digital tools continue to advance, all organizations are increasingly using technology to enhance communication, improve collaboration and streamline operations.
Virtual meetings, online training sessions and digital workspaces now play a crucial role in maintaining efficiency and connectivity. These tools enable teams to work together seamlessly, regardless of location, optimizing resources while providing greater flexibility and accessibility to meet evolving needs.
What will happen to the staff and leadership of both Councils?
The intent of the merger is not to reduce staff. Instead, the focus is on finding ways to better utilize staff to support local units and Scouts more effectively while fostering growth.
With a merger, a new board and executive committee will be formed, with representation from both Councils.
Will local traditions and events be maintained?
A key goal of the merger is to honor and preserve the unique traditions and cultural heritage of both Councils while introducing new and improved programs. Local events will continue to be an integral part of the Scouting experience, and every effort will be made to uphold long-standing traditions whenever possible.
Will the merger improve fundraising and donor engagement?
A unified Council would significantly strengthen fundraising efforts across Long Island, making it more attractive for businesses, community leaders and major organizations to invest in Scouting and see the direct impact of their contributions.
By creating a more cohesive structure, the Council would enhance visibility, attract larger sponsorships and forge stronger partnerships with corporate and community stakeholders. This strategic alignment could drive greater financial support, expand available resources and elevate programs that benefit Scouts and local initiatives. Additionally, a unified Council would offer clearer and compelling opportunities for new board members from the business and community sectors, fostering increased participation, leadership and long-term engagement.
Who will make the decision on the merger?
On Thursday, September 25, the Executive Boards of Theodore Roosevelt Council (TRC) and Suffolk County Council (SCC), in separate meetings, voted, approved, and adopted resolutions approving a new Plan of Merger. As a result, this decision will once again be brought to the general membership of each council for approval.
Two seperate meetings will be held to vote on the Plan of Merger.
Suffolk County Council will hold its special meeting on Wednesday, October 22nd.
The Theodore Roosevelt Council will hold its special meeting on Tuesday, October 28th.
Additionally, approval from National Scouting America and New York State regulatory authorities will be required before the merger can proceed.
