Developing the Next Generation

Supporting children in foster and kinship care to join scouting programs for FREE.
An initiative organized by the West Virginia Council of Churches, Girl Scouts of Black Diamond Council, and Scouting America Buckskin Council.

Ways to join the Scouting America Buckskin Council

Ways to join Girl Scouts of Black Diamond Council

About Developing the Next Generation 

West Virginia has more children in foster and kinship care per capita than any state in the nation. These children often face hardships during adult life, including homelessness, incarceration, and substance use disorders. 

But there are ways to foster brighter futures for these young West Virginians.

Children in foster and kinship care can benefit greatly from structured programs that teach life skills, build confidence, and create a safe, caring environment. That’s why joining a scouting program can change the trajectory of their lives. Through camping, coding, community service and so much more, children in foster and kinship care develop a deep sense of belonging—and a deep sense of belief in themselves. 

For this reason, the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation and the Bernard McDonough Foundation have generously provided grants to support the creation of the Developing the Next Generation Initiative. This program allows children in foster and kinship care to join scouting programs for free and pays for associated costs, including uniforms and field trips. 

Support foster and kinship youth by donating to develop the next generation

A small donation can make a big difference for a child in foster or kinship care. 

It costs just $25 to register a child with Girl Scouts of Black Diamond Council. And it costs just $85 to register a child in a Scouting America Pack, Troop, or Crew.

Click this link to donate to the Developing the Next Generation Initiative. You’ll be taken to a landing page operated by the United Methodist Foundation of WV, Inc., but 100% of your donation will support children in foster or kinship care seeking to join scouting programs.