In recent years, youth membership in the Order of the Arrow has declined significantly throughout the nation. This has impacted lodges with their ability to support councils and deliver program.

The Order must grow, alongside the Scouting movement, to achieve its purpose. The best way to do this is through supporting a “High Performing Lodge” in each council. To help achieve this aim, the National OA Committee approved several significant policy changes at their recent meeting. The following changes take effect immediately:

• Brotherhood Requirements: The waiting period between induction and eligibility for Brotherhood membership has been reduced to six (6) months. All other requirements are unchanged.
• Journey to Excellence (JTE): The lodge program has been discontinued and immediately replaced with the new Performance Measurement Program. There are a small number of requirements and clear benchmarks for lodge achievement.
• Purpose of the Section: The role of the section has been expanded beyond hosting Conclave to empower, support and help lodges become high performing.

More information will be provided as it becomes available.

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Mr. Minello

Lodge Advisor