There is a ton of reasons why youth drop out of organizations including Scouting. But there is simply one answer to stay engaged. Let’s walk through the reasons, and then the solutions.
Top Complaints & Why Youth Drop Out of Scouting
“It’s too structured or rigid.”
A lot of youth feel boxed in by too many rules, uniforms, ceremonies, or adult-driven agendas that don’t leave room for their input.
“It’s boring.”
Some troops stick to the same old activities and don’t tap into what excites older youth: real adventure, leadership, and meaningful challenges.
“It’s not relevant anymore.”
Some youth feel like Scouting hasn’t kept up with modern interests, tech, or cultural shifts, especially for older teens.
“I aged out mentally before I aged out officially.”
Especially for teens who want more autonomy, traditional Scouting can feel too juvenile.
“No one my age is still doing it.”
Peer involvement is huge. If their friends leave, or it feels uncool, it’s hard to stick around.
Common Concerns from Parents or the Public
“Is it inclusive?”
✅ Yes. Venturing has always been co-ed, welcoming both young men and women ages 14–20 (or 13 and finished 8th grade). The program emphasizes diversity, respect, and belonging. All youth are welcome regardless of background, and crews are encouraged to create a positive, inclusive environment.
“Is it safe from abuse or bullying?”
✅ Safety is a top priority. Venturing follows the BSA’s nationally recognized Youth Protection Program. That includes:
Two-deep leadership (no one-on-one adult/youth interactions)
Background checks and training for all adult volunteers
Clear procedures for reporting and addressing concerns
Crews also focus on peer respect, and youth are taught how to build positive, supportive teams.
In addition, we train our Crew Members that there is safety in numbers, and we expect them to report anything that is out of the ordinary for immediate action.
The Crew Members still bestow nicknames on each other, which if done appropriately, helps with feeling included
“Is it worth the time investment?”
✅ Definitely. Venturing gives teens real-world experiences that help with:
Leadership
Outdoor survival and safety
Event planning and project management
Communication and teamwork
These aren’t just “fun and games”—they’re skills for college, careers, and life.
“Does it build useful life skills?”
✅ Absolutely. Venturers:
Lead trips and events
Manage crew budgets
Plan service projects
Solve real problems
They also learn time management, public speaking, critical thinking, and more. It’s hands-on, meaningful learning, not just theory.
“Does it actually keep teens engaged, or is it just for younger kids?”
✅ Venturing is made for teens. It’s not a continuation of Cub Scouts or even Scouts BSA—it’s its own thing.
Venturers choose their own adventures. That might mean:
Backpacking in the mountains
Planning a dive trip or a music video project
Organizing a community event
It’s exciting, teen-driven, and full of challenge. Youth who crave independence and fun with purpose stay engaged—because they’re the ones calling the shots.
How Venturing Answers These Concerns
- Youth-Led, Not Adult-Run
Venturing puts youth in the driver’s seat. They plan the activities, set goals, lead crews, and make decisions. It’s real leadership in action—not just following a checklist. - Flexible Advancement
No pressure to hit every rank or deadline. Youth can work toward the Ranger Award, Summit Award, or just participate for the experience. - High Adventure Focus
The program thrives on real, challenging experiences: backpacking, climbing, paddling, mountaineering, scuba, shooting sports, and more. It’s where “boring” goes to die. - Relevant for Teens
It’s designed specifically for ages 14–20 (or 13 and completed 8th grade), so it’s developmentally aligned with older youth. It feels like something for them, not a holdover from childhood. - Strong Peer Culture
Venturing attracts motivated, adventurous teens. When done right, crews become tight-knit communities—social, supportive, and driven. - Inclusive and Co-Ed
Since day one, Venturing has welcomed all youth. It feels modern, forward-thinking, and built for everyone. - Leadership & Life Skills
Venturers don’t just gain outdoor skills—they develop project planning, communication, group leadership, and goal-setting experience. That’s résumé material. - A Safe, Structured Framework
Still under the BSA umbrella, Venturing benefits from strong youth protection policies and adult leader screening/training.