National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) is the premier youth leadership program offered by Hawk Mountain Council. NYLT is an exciting, action-packed program designed to provide youth members with leadership skills and experience they can use in their home troops and crews, and in other situations demanding leadership of self and others.
Hazardous Weather Training
Hazardous Weather Training
Frequently Asked Questions
In 2017, Hazardous Weather Training was made mandatory for all Direct Contact Leaders, however completion of this training has not been properly reflected in the training reports. Effective the week of December 2, 2024 this training will be reflected in training reports. We’ve created this FAQ to help answer some questions you may have.
Is Hazardous Weather Training mandatory for registration or renewal of Scouting America membership?
- No, Hazardous Weather Training does not impact an individual’s registration with Scouting America.
Who is required to complete Hazardous Weather Training?
- All Direct Contact Leaders are required to complete Hazardous Weather Training to be considered “trained” in their position.
Can Hazardous Weather Training be conducted in an in-person setting?
- NO. Hazardous Weather Training can ONLY be completed using the on-line modules offered through my.Scouting.
Is it recommended for all adult leaders attending outdoor events to complete this training?
- It is recommended that any adult leader, who is attending an outdoor event, with a unit, complete Hazardous Weather Training.
Does Hazardous Weather Training expire?
- Hazardous Weather Training is valid for two years.
How will leaders be notified about the expiration of their Hazardous Weather Training?
- Leaders will receive an email notification of their expiration date, from my.scouting (similar to Youth Protection emails). Leaders can also see their training status in their my.Scouting account under My Training. Direct Contact Leaders must complete Hazardous Weather training every two years to retain “trained” status.
Adult Leader Outdoor Trainings
Are you in a Cubmaster, Scoutmaster, or an assistant of either position? Have you completed your required Outdoor Leader Training? If not, we have a number of opportunities for you.
Cub Scout Leaders:
Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO)
This one-and-a-half day course is an introduction to the Cub Scout outdoor program for leaders interested in adding a camping component to their Pack activities. BALOO training consists of an online pre-requisite component in addition to an overnight hands on practical. BSA’s Cub Scout camping policies will be taught along with the necessary tools to help units carry our a successful camping experience. Completion of this course is mandatory for a MINIMUM OF ONE adult on a Pack overnight trip.
Online Training Pre-requisite for BALOO
The online portion is available through the BSA Learn Center. Log onto my.scouting.org and select the BSA Learn Center image on the right side of the home page. On the following page select Catalog from the top menu, and enter “BALOO” into the search box.
Scouts BSA Leaders:
Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (IOLS)
Intro to Outdoor Leader Skills is a mandatory training for all registered Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters. We will be covering the fundamental skills necessary to successfully and safely take a Scouts BSA troop or patrol on an outing. The Campsite Edition of IOLS has participants simulate a classic Scout “car camping” weekend. Therefore participants will carry their gear a short distance from a vehicle to a campsite. They will set up their tents at the site, and remain there other than short expeditions.
Campsite edition is designed for scout leaders with minimal camping experience.
Introduction to Outdoor Leadership Skills (IOLS)
Intro to Outdoor Leader Skills is a mandatory training for all registered Scoutmasters and Assistant Scoutmasters. We will be covering the fundamental skills necessary to successfully and safely take a Scouts BSA troop or patrol on an outing. The course explores the back corners of Hawk Mountain Scout Reservation and is led by experienced backcountry guides. This course is open for more than just those in need of Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills training. It should be noted that all required IOLS course material will be covered while hiking on the trail. The course is also for those who simply want to experience the challenge and fun of backpacking. Leaders who have completed IOLS but would like to further improve backcountry skills are more than welcome to participate.
In addition to regular outdoor skills, you will learn trail navigation, gear, hydration and cooking for backcountry camping, trail crew planning and methods and tips for keeping you (and the scouts) healthy and happy on the trail. You will carry your tents to the overnight location.
You will need to carry a backpack, your sleeping bag/pad and scout essentials for approximately 8 miles over 2 days. There will be a Zoom Question & Answer session held where a complete gear list will be discussed on the weekend prior to the course. We highly recommend that you borrow gear you need before purchase as you will learn about what gear you want to have.
Leaders who have completed this course have had the same reaction – they learned more than they expected and had a lot of fun together. Leave the campsite behind, get outdoors and strengthen your skills and leadership. The cap for this course is 12.
Click the button below to find when our next courses will be held & register now!
Become a Merit Badge Counselor
Become a Merit Badge Counselor
What expertise do you have to share with Scouts? Check out the list of merit badges and their requirements. To become a merit badge counselor or to change your list of badges offered, complete the Merit Badge Counselor application and a new adult application (using position code 42), and take the Merit Badge Counselor training on my.Scouting.org. This position also requires current Youth Protection training.
Experienced Leaders
Hawk Mountain Council recognizes that some leaders are very experienced with the operation of a Scouts BSA troop and also serve as merit badge counselors. We have prepared an online training that meets the national training requirements for Merit Badge Counselors for those who are already experienced and familiar with the Scouts BSA program. Complete this training by watching the video below and then reporting it to the training committee as directed at the conclusion.
Youth Protection Training Information
Dear Hawk Mountain Council Volunteers and Parents,
I hope this message finds you well. As dedicated members of our Scouting community, your commitment and enthusiasm have always been the driving force behind the success and growth of our programs. Youth Protection Training is a cornerstone of our mission to ensure the safety and well-being of our youth.
In alignment with Scouting America’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding our young members, it is mandatory for all registered volunteers to complete Youth Protection Training as a joining requirement. This training is not just a formality; it is an essential tool that equips us with the knowledge and skills to protect our youth from harm.
Leadership Training
One of the keys to a successful Scouting experience for young people, second only to the selection of the right person for each responsibility, is trained volunteer leadership.
The training philosophy of the Boy Scouts of America is to provide adults with fundamental information about the aims and purpose of the movement, as well as specifics about their particular roles in Scouting.
