The Northeast Region is projected to have an overall decline in Total Available Youth (TAY) between 2006 and 2011. Boy Scout TAY will decline the most (-5.1 percent), followed by Cub Scout TAY (-2.5 percent) and Venturing TAY (-1.1 percent). To offset a declining TAY, plan an emphasis on greater density among all program segments through expansion of existing units, reaching new chartered organizations, and increasing retention of current members.
The Central Region TAY is projected to remain relatively stable between 2006 and 2011. Venturing TAY (0.6 percent) and Cub Scout TAY (0.6 percent) will increase slightly, while Boy Scout TAY will decrease slightly (-0.6 percent). To offset this decline, plan an emphasis on greater density among Boy Scout-age boys while ensuring unit growth for the expanding Cub Scout and Venturing-age groups.
The Southern Region is projected to have the largest increase in TAY between 2006 and 2011. Boy Scout TAY (6.7 percent) will increase the most, followed by Venturing TAY (6.3 percent) and Cub Scout TAY (5.7 percent). To take advantage of the increasing TAY, plan for expansion of units and resources to effectively take advantage of TAY growth in all age groups.
The Western Region is projected to have TAY increases in two traditional programs between 2006 and 2011. Cub Scout TAY (5.7 percent) and Venturing TAY (4.3 percent) will increase, while Boy Scout TAY will decrease (-1.5 percent). To offset this decline, plan an emphasis on greater density among Boy Scout-age boys while ensuring unit growth for the expanding Cub Scout and Venturing-age groups.
To help councils plan for youth population changes in their area, Research Service sends out annual demographic projections. Projections specific to your council are e-mailed to each Scout executive in December and January each year.
The Merits of Marketing (marketing.scouting.org) is a resource for local
councils, developed by the Marketing &
Communications Division of the National Council, Boy Scouts of
America.