Building a Legacy Prepared for the Future

For more than 100 years, Scouting has helped shape generations of young people into leaders with character and purpose. In Southeast Louisiana, that legacy is especially strong. The Southeast Louisiana Council, which serves nine parishes, celebrated its 100th anniversary last year.

Today, Scouting America is entering a new era. The organization has rebranded, expanded access to both boys and girls, and renewed its focus on serving families across the region. Our Council is growing into new communities, strengthening traditional programs, and preparing for the future.

To support this momentum, we are launching a comprehensive capital campaign. This $5 million effort will secure the resources needed to preserve what makes Scouting great while preparing the next generation for life.

Revitalizing Camp V-Bar 

Goal - $1.5M for Capital

Camp V-Bar is at the heart of the Scouting experience. Each year, more than 3,000 Scouts gather there for outdoor adventure, leadership training, and personal growth.

The camp is well-loved but in need of serious renovation. Roads, restrooms, and key infrastructure require repair. The lake dam needs long-deferred maintenance. And the last major fundraising effort for Camp V-Bar was 20 years ago.

This campaign will raise $1.5 million to modernize facilities, improve safety, and expand capacity. Each gift will also support a permanent maintenance fund, ensuring the camp remains in strong shape for years to come.

Extending Scouting’s Reach

Goal - $1M for ScoutReach Program

Scouting builds confidence, responsibility, and leadership. Through ScoutReach, the Council brings Scouting to young people in schools and neighborhoods where families may not have the means to participate.

The Council covers the cost of uniforms, supplies, transportation, and trained leadership. ScoutReach introduces more young people to the values and experiences that define Scouting.

This campaign will raise $1 million to grow the program and reach more families throughout the region. It will also reduce the burden on the operating budget, making ScoutReach more sustainable in the years ahead.

Securing Our Future

Goal - $2.5M for Endowment

A strong endowment is essential for the long-term health of the Council. Today, our endowment stands at $2.1 million. Growing that fund is critical to supporting operations, training, and programs for the next generation of Scouts.

The campaign aims to raise $2.5 million for endowment — more than doubling our current total. This investment will help relieve pressure on the annual budget and provide stability in a changing financial landscape.

A strong endowment helps ensure that future Scouts will benefit from the same high-quality programs and leadership that families expect today.

Message from the Council President 

Dear Friends, 

For over a century, Scouting in Southeast Louisiana has helped shape young people into ethical leaders grounded in character, service, and purpose. Today, that legacy continues, with over 3,500 Scouts participating annually across the nine parishes we serve.

As an Eagle Scout, Scoutmaster, and the parent of an Eagle Scout, I’ve seen firsthand how this movement transforms lives. Now, as Council President, I’m proud to help lead our Council into its next chapter of service and stewardship.

This $5 million capital campaign comes at a pivotal moment. As we preserve the time-honored traditions of Scouting, we are also strengthening our foundation, reaching more families, broadening our impact, and securing our future.

Your support will help us preserve the best of Scouting while building what’s next for every young person who deserves the opportunity to thrive.

With gratitude,

Dr. Andrew Todd

Council President

Southeast Louisiana Council

Scouting America

For Further Information

Please contact Torrey Hayden, Scout Executive/CEO/Team Member/ Scouting America, Southeast Louisiana Council

(504) 889-0388 ext. 245 or Torrey.Hayden@scouting.org

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