Merit badges teach real skills, giving Scouts real learning opportunities. Merit badges build confidence and a sense of accomplishment in youth through structures that foster success in learning and growing.
Merit badge counselors provide mentorship and positive youth/adult interactions. Youth with positive mentorship experiences have higher rates of success in school and improved social/emotional well- being, leading to more successful adult lives.
Your sponsorship is an investment in our local youth and community. All funds from merit badge sponsorship remain in Blackhawk Area Council, making a difference here.
What is a merit badge?
The merit badge program sparks the interest and imagination of a young person in a particular area. Some merit badges are likely to develop interest in a hobby, some help spark curiosity about a potential career path, and some are focused on the developing Scout and helping them grow into the best version of themselves.
Working with the oversight of an adult mentor (a merit badge counselor), the youth completes all the requirements for a merit badge, after which they are awarded the physical badge recognizing their hard work.
There are two main categories of merit badges—Eagle required and non-Eagle required.
It’s about so much more than dollars!
When sponsoring a merit badge, you (and your organization) have the opportunity to give so much more than dollars to our youth.
There’s a good chance you are passionate about skills taught in your chosen merit badge. We love passionate subject matter experts! We recognize that community engagement is a priority for many individuals, businesses and organizations, and we’re happy to facilitate that engagement by (1) registering you and your people as merit badge counselors, allowing you to mentor youth in the Scouting program, or by (2) providing registered merit badge counselors to work with youth at your location.
What does a sponsorship cost?
There are 3 sponsorship tiers; each level adds unique benefits.
Yearly costs per tier: Silver $1000/Gold $2500/Platinum $5000.
Merit badge sponsorships are a tax deductible charitable contributions.
Interested in becoming a Merit Badge Sponsor?
An investment in character!
For more information, contact Development Director, Alice Roby: alice.roby@scouting.org or 815-261-0353.
Merit Badge Sponsors
Thank you to all of our generous Merit Badge Sponsors. Their program support keeps our Scouts learning!
