Navigators USA

Navigators USA. It is a coeducational scouting organization founded in the United States in 2003, established as a secular and inclusive alternative to traditional scouting groups. The organization emphasizes outdoor adventure, community service, and the development of leadership skills in a non-discriminatory environment open to all families and volunteers. Its structure is intentionally decentralized, empowering local chapters to design programs that reflect their community's needs and interests.

History

Navigators USA was founded in 2003 by Rob Greenlaw, a former scoutmaster within the Boy Scouts of America. The creation was motivated by a desire to establish a fully inclusive scouting model that was independent of religious affiliation and welcomed all genders and beliefs from its inception. Its early growth paralleled broader societal debates regarding inclusivity within major youth organizations in North America. The organization expanded steadily, forming new chapters across various states and establishing a presence through community-driven recruitment and online organizing. Key to its development was the adoption of an open-source philosophy for its program materials, allowing for widespread adaptation and use.

Organization and structure

The national organization provides a basic framework, charter, and resources but operates with a highly decentralized, grassroots model. Local groups, known as chapters, are largely autonomous and are run by volunteer parents and leaders within their communities. This structure is designed to minimize bureaucracy and overhead, contrasting with the more hierarchical systems of organizations like the Girl Scouts of the USA. Each chapter manages its own finances, schedule, and specific programming, guided by the national principles. The national body supports chapters by maintaining the guidebook, offering liability insurance, and facilitating communication and idea-sharing across the network through its official website and forums.

Program and activities

The program is built around a core curriculum that includes traditional scouting pursuits such as camping, hiking, orienteering, and first aid. A strong emphasis is placed on environmental stewardship and hands-on community service projects. The advancement system is non-competitive and focused on personal growth, with members earning badges for developing skills in areas like natural science, arts and crafts, and civics. Typical activities might involve local park clean-ups, learning about Indigenous land practices, or building projects. Chapters often participate in regional campouts and events, fostering a broader sense of community beyond the local level.

Ideals and principles

The fundamental principles of Navigators USA are encapsulated in its promise: "To be honest, be fair, be helpful, and be kind." The organization is explicitly secular, requiring no declaration of religious belief from its members or adult volunteers, and is committed to full inclusion regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, or religious or philosophical belief. This stands in contrast to the historical membership policies of the Boy Scouts of America. Its ethos promotes cooperation over competition, respect for the natural world, and the development of critical thinking. The aim is to provide a ethical and character-building framework that is derived from humanistic and community values rather than any specific theological doctrine.

Affiliations and recognition

Navigators USA is an independent organization and is not affiliated with any worldwide scouting body such as the World Organization of the Scout Movement or the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. It is recognized as part of the broader landscape of alternative scouting movements in North America, which includes groups like Camp Fire and SpiralScouts International. The organization has been featured in various media outlets, including The New York Times and NPR, often in discussions about evolving models of youth development and inclusive community organizations. It maintains a cooperative but independent stance, focusing on its specific mission rather than seeking formal alignment with larger institutions.

Category:Youth organizations in the United States Category:Scouting and guiding organizations in the United States Category:Organizations established in 2003