Scouts are elected to the Order by their fellow unit members, following approval by the Scoutmaster or Crew Adviser. To become a member, a youth must be a registered member of a Scout troop or Venturing Crew and hold at least a First Class rank.
Youth Eligibility
The youth must have experienced fifteen days and nights of Scout camping during the two-year period prior to the election. The fifteen days and nights must include one, but no more than one, long-term camp consisting of six consecutive days and five nights of resident camping, approved and under the auspices and standards of the Boy Scouts of America. The balance of the camping must be overnight, weekend, or other short-term camps.
Adult Eligibility
Adults are nominated for selection to OA by the Troop Committee on a basis of one adult per three elected boys in the troop/team or part thereof. Additionally, currently serving unit leaders (Scoutmaster or Coach) that are not already members of the OA may be nominated in addition to the one adult per three youth ratio as long as he or she has served as unit leader for least the previous twelve months.
Adult selection is based on their ability to perform the necessary functions to help the Order fulfill its purpose, and is not for recognition. Selected adult Scouters must be an asset to the Order because of demonstrated abilities, and provide a positive role model for the youth members of the lodge.
Why should my unit have a unit election?
There are several reasons each troop in the John Ross District should plan for and hold an annual OA election. It is an excellent opportunity for the youth of your troop to recognize those they view as leaders and outstanding Scouts. This recognition can encourage your members as they progress in Scouting. When an older Scout becomes more involved in Scouting, his bonds will grow.
Because all OA members must be active members of their unit, your unit can benefit by retaining older members as leaders and examples to younger Scouts.
Finally, the OA has many opportunities beyond what most units can offer to gain leadership skills that benefit them personally and ultimately, your troop.
Can a troop do its own unit election?
The lodge, through the unit elections committee, should work with the troop/team leader in establishing the actual time and place to conduct the election. The Order should be represented by a two‐ or three‐member team from the lodge or chapter unit elections committee. All election teams must be trained and in proper uniform during the election.
The lodge is responsible for making sure that election teams are properly trained, so it’s important that troops and teams not conduct their own elections.
When can we have an election?
Ideally, anytime from January 1st to March 31st. The date can be a regular troop meeting or a special meeting. Our goal is to have all unit elections completed by April 1 to ensure each unit has the opportunity to meet the two‐week registration deadline of each Induction Weekend available. However, if that is not possible, it should be held as best suits your troop.
Requesting a Unit Election
OA elections must be coordinated through your Chapter Chief. Please read the Talidandaganu’ OA Election Guide and have your OA Representative contact your Chapter Chief.
National Policy on Unit Elections Membership Requirements
This page explains the National Policy on Unit Elections Membership Requirements.
Links
John Ross Chapter OA Elections Guide
Adult Nomination Form
John Ross Chapter OA Election Eligibility Form
