7 Steps To Earning An Award

John Boom's 7 Step Guide to Earning Any Award:

1. Get a copy of the requirements--You can get them from either the ranger/Venturing Handbook or print them from http://usscouts.org/usscouts/advance/venturing/intro.asp

2. Get a notebook with folders. Write down your goals. Write down your deadlines. And list how you plan to accomplish each goal. In the folder include any papers you collect and take pictures along the way. You can use these in your presentations, scrapbooks, and they help to prove that you have actually done what you said you have.

3. Phone calls. Getting most Venturing awards requires lots and lots of phone calls. Call for permits you will need. Find contacts for people who have the specializations you are looking for. Call people to get the information out about what you are doing. Call to get approval. This is why you have a notebook. Keep track of all of your calls. keep your phone numbers and log your contacts. It helps settle disputes and clear things up, and it keeps you well organized. And it helps to remind you of the events that you have scheduled.

4. Go shopping--It takes a lot of equipment and supplies to fully complete the Award. Find out who has what. Find out what you can borrow or rent. Have a budget and go get it!

5. Go do it!

6. Follow up and follow through. Make your presentations. Make sure you have completed ALL of the requirements! Send out thank you notes. Make sure you have all of your paperwork properly filled out and that you have all of your signatures.

7. Turn your stuff in at the council, get your award, invite your friends, have your Court of Honor--Congratulations You have earned your award!