Extended Learning
Eagle Required
Citizenship in the Community
Merit Badge
Digital Resource Guide
Careers that make a difference in your community
Every community has leaders who serve in the public eye, but there are also dedicated behind‑the‑scenes professionals who work hard to provide resources that help keep the community safe. Explore some of these rewarding careers and their connection to the Citizenship in the Community merit badge.
Pursuing a Career in Local Government: Judge Curtis Delap’s Journey to the District Court
City Planners
Work directly with citizens, local officials, and organizations to understand community needs and develop plans that reflect public input—just like the merit badge encourages Scouts to learn about local government and participate in civic life.
Community Mediator
Mediators often work with local organizations, schools, and government agencies to foster dialogue and cooperation.
Community mediators help resolve disputes between individuals or groups in a peaceful, constructive manner.
Public meetings might need a community mediator to help resolve conflicts and reach a resolution.
Environmental Policy Analyst
Just like Scouts learn to identify community needs, analysts assess environmental challenges—like pollution, land use, or climate resilience—and recommend solutions that benefit the public.
Fundraising Coordinator
Fundraiser coordinators play a vital role in helping charitable organizations raise money to support programs that address community needs—like education, health, housing, or the environment.
Getting to Know Your Local Officials: A Voter’s Guide
If you don’t know your voting district or who represents you, reach out to your city, school district, or county for guidance. With your parent or guardian’s permission, visit your state’s website on the internet.
You can find your local governments at the link below.
Discover How Youth Are Making a Big Difference
Hunter Beaton, a fellow Scout, founded Day 1 Bags!
Day 1 Bags is a nonprofit that provides foster children with bags and essential items to support them during their time in foster care. The organization’s mission is to promote dignity and show appreciation for foster youth across America.
Check out how Scouting motivated Hunter to start his nonprofit!
Fundraising for Homeless Shelters
Jaxson Turner, a Texas teen, founded the charity “Never Too Young To Care” (N2Y2C) and successfully raised nearly $6,000 to provide Christmas gifts for children at a shelter in McKinney, Texas.
Helping Children with Medical Needs
Three middle schooler students in South Florida created a nonprofit called “Wundie Undies” to provide undergarments and feminine hygiene products to local shelters and food banks.
With grassroots charity, South Florida middle schoolers make sure ‘every little butt counts’
A "Promathon" for Charity
A group of high school students in Huntersville, North Carolina, created a “Promathon,” a 10-mile run to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).
