CASTing Call: Extend Your Summer of Scouting at the 2026 National Jamboree

Other COPE/ClimbingNational Jamboree articles

National Jamboree

Michael Prachar selected as Associate Director of the National Jamboree

We are thrilled to announce the selection of Michael “Mike” Prachar as a Senior Program Administrative Specialist within the Outdoor Programs and Properties department beginning July 1, 2024. In this role, Mike will serve as the Associate Director of the National Jamboree.

As Associate Director of the National Jamboree, Mike will bring his expertise to support the development, administration, and management of a successful National Jamboree. In addition to his work with the National Jamboree, Mike will work alongside several national outdoor programs and properties subcommittees to support their efforts in delivering safe and impactful outdoor programs to youth across the nation.

Mike began his Scouting career in the Mecklenburg County Council as a district executive, and has since served as a district director, field director, Assistant Scout Executive, and Director of Support Services throughout Scouting including councils in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Maryland. Most recently, Mike has served as the Director of Support Services in the Circle Ten Council in Dallas Texas managing the council’s outdoor programs and properties extensive camping operations.

With Mike’s history of excelling under leadership in various councils and managing various teams, we are confident in his ability to make significant contributions to the success of the National Jamboree and other assigned opportunities within the Outdoor Programs and Properties department. His dedication to empowering volunteers and staff to create dynamic Scouting programs aligns perfectly with our mission and values.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Mike Prachar. We look forward to his contributions and collaboration as we continue to serve our Scouting community with excellence.

National Jamboree

The 2026 National Jamboree is Set to ELEVATE Scouting

The next National Jamboree will be held July 22-31, 2026, at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in Glen Jean, WV. In case you have not heard, the theme is ELEVATE and this event will ELEVATE your Scouting and will be a life changing experience not just for your Scouts but for you as well.

So what is a Jamboree? It is Scouting’s premiere event where we gather with over 10,000 Scouts and Scouters who come together to celebrate the spirit of Scouting. The Jamboree is a life-changing experience for both youth and adults who attend. The memories and experiences they have last a lifetime. Friends that are made become lifelong companions and the shared experiences are talked about around campfires for years to come.

So you don’t want to miss out on this opportunity as it only comes around every few years. If you miss this one the next one won’t be until 2029.

Here are a few keys to ELEVATE your Jamboree knowledge.

ELEVATE your community and learn that Scouting is bigger than just my unit. We plan to have an arena show (or two) to gather the entire Jamboree together to celebrate Scouting and have a great time. it is a sight to see everyone together and to help youth to understand that Scouting is bigger than just my unit, district or council. Scouting is all of us and we will showcase this when we bring everyone together.

ELEVATE your Scouts by helping them come to the Jamboree! The Jamboree, like most things in Scouting, is only successful when we all work together. We need you to help promote the Jamboree to your unit, your district, your council and to your friends. We need you to help fill contingents of youth, so they do not miss this once in a lifetime event. Most Scouts will only have one opportunity to experience a Jamboree as a youth, so make sure that they don’t miss out.

ELEVATE your Scouting Journey! The Jamboree relies on great volunteers to help us in all aspects of the event. We need people to run programs, help in administration, operations and logistics to name a few. There is a job for you! Like other parts of Scouting if there is something you like to do, you can do it at the Jamboree. So look to be a part of the largest “staff” in Scouting.

ELEVATE your reach. If you are looking for some resources to help you get the word out, make sure to check out the Brand Center. Here you will find some social media ready photos and videos that you can share. You will also find the Jamboree “ELEVATE” theme logo and brand guidance. Click on this link to take you straight to the Jamboree resources. https://scouting.webdamdb.com/bp/#/folder/13228711/. Go take a look now at the great images, and videos and share a couple on your social channels… I’ll wait…

ELEVATE your awareness. Now that you have seen (and shared) the videos, you are asking “How do I sign up?” Registration will open this fall, but until then keep up to date by signing up to receive notifications from us by visiting www.jamboree.scouting.org. Here you will find all the information you need about the Jamboree. Bookmark the site as this will be your main source of information for all things Jamboree. If you did not get a chance to see it, you should also check out the “Trek on Tuesday” where despite some technical difficulties, we shared some great information about the Jamboree. You can find that discussion here. – https://www.youtube.com/live/WOOKLGAp2Cg

The National Jamboree is Scouting premiere event so you definitely do not want to miss it. Make your plans now to participate as a contingent member or on the Jamboree Service Team (Staff). This will be our first Jamboree as Scouting America and you can’t say you have been to every Scouting America Jamboree if you miss the first one! Keep watching for more information and to get signed up.

National Jamboree

Become a 2026 National Jamboree Staff Member

The National Jamboree is Scouting’s premiere event, bringing together thousands of Scouts and leaders from across the country. If you’ve ever attended a Jamboree, or just hear others talk about it around the campfire, you know it’s a life-changing experience. And we need you to be a part of the staff who make it happen! Serving on the Jamboree staff is an opportunity for Scouts and Scouters aged 16 and up to “Elevate” Scouting for all of those in attendance. Let me give you the top 10 reasons to “Elevate” your Scouting by becoming a Jamboree staff member:

1. The biggest Scouting event of the year

The National Jamboree is like building our own Scouting city, requiring thousands of dedicated volunteers to make it run smoothly. By serving on staff, you’re helping to create lifelong memories for tens of thousands of Scouts, leaders and visitors. Your contribution, no matter the role, is crucial to the success of the Jamboree. You’ll leave knowing you helped to Elevate Scouting’s future.

2. Leadership opportunities

One of the aims of Scouting is leadership development. This is not just for the youth. Jamboree staff positions are leadership development opportunities unlike any other. Whether you’re leading a group of volunteers while running an activity area, or providing behind-the-scenes support, you’ll hone valuable skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and communication. These experiences not only strengthen your Scouting resume but also give you skills that are transferable to work, school, and other aspects of life.

3. Lifelong friends!

The friendships you form as a Jamboree staffer are one of the main reasons that people return each Jamboree. You’ll work alongside volunteers from all over the country, people who share your passion for Scouting. The bonds you create while working, learning, and having fun together will last a lifetime. You’ll also meet Scouts and leaders from around the world, expanding your Scouting network in ways you never thought possible.

4. Personal growth

Serving on Jamboree staff pushes you out of your comfort zone in the best way possible. You’ll be challenged with new responsibilities, often in fast-paced environments, giving you the chance to grow as an individual. Whether you’re 16 or 60, Jamboree staff service helps you discover new strengths and passions. It’s an experience that will Elevate you personally and that will stay with you long after the Jamboree ends.

5. Staff perks

Being a staff member has its perks! You’ll have access to special staff only areas, receive unique staff swag, and have opportunities to participate in staff-only activities. Plus, being on staff allows you to experience the Jamboree from a behind-the-scenes perspective, offering an entirely different view. From the early staff arrival days to the closing show, your time on staff is filled with exciting, exclusive experiences.

6. Elevate Scouting for the next generation

One of the most meaningful aspects of serving on Jamboree staff is the chance to Elevate Scouting for the next generation of Scouts. The Jamboree is often a life-changing experience for many young Scouts. As a staff member, you play a pivotal role in making that happen. Whether you’re helping a Scout conquer a new activity, teaching a new skill, or simply offering encouragement, you’re shaping the Scouting journey for thousands of youth. Your influence can last long after the event.

7. A chance to give back

For those who’ve benefited from Scouting, serving on Jamboree staff is a powerful way to give back to the program that’s given you so much. It’s an opportunity to invest your time, talent, and passion into an event that strengthens Scouting across the nation. Whether you’ve been involved in Scouting for decades or are relatively new, your service helps ensure that the values of Scouting continue to thrive.

8. FUN!

While there’s plenty of hard work involved, serving on staff is also about having fun. The Jamboree experience is full of adventure. You’ll have a front-row seat to some of the coolest activities and events happening at the Jamboree, the excitement is contagious. Many staffers say they return for friendships and the fun as much as the work itself.

9. Professional experience

Especially if you are a young person or young professional, Jamboree will help you to build your network across the country. You can choose to work in any field of the Jamboree that interests you and will have a chance to meet others who share that same passion. Staff members in the past have used the Jamboree to make connections to help further their professional careers as well. Use the Jamboree as a chance to Elevate your resume not only in Scouting but in connections with other professionals.

10. Be a part of the first Scouting America Jamboree

The Jamboree has been around since 1937 and thousands of Scouts have attended Jamborees and served on the staff. But this Jamboree will be the first for Scouting America. You can’t say you have been to every Scouting America Jamboree if you miss the first one! Even more, you can’t say you have staffed every Scouting America Jamboree unless you staff the first one.

10 1/2. Celebrate America

I know I said top ten, but the Jamboree experience can’t be contained in just 10…So…

Speaking of America, 2026 also marks the 250th anniversary of the USA and we will have a chance to celebrate that milestone as well during the Jamboree. Our Americana Extravaganza will give you an opportunity to celebrate citizenship and celebrate our country in some unique ways as a part of the largest gathering of Scouters. You don’t want to miss it.

So how do you sign up?

Watch the Jamboree website www.jamboree.scouting.org for the latest information. This is also the place where you will find the Jamboree registration link coming this fall. With a variety of roles available, from program areas to logistics, there’s a place for everyone, regardless of your skills or experience level.

Serving on the National Jamboree staff is a rewarding, unforgettable experience. You’ll find value in the friendships, skills, and personal growth that come with being part of the Jamboree staff team. Not only will you help Elevate the experience for thousands of Scouts, but you’ll also walk away with memories that will last a lifetime.

Are you ready to make a difference and be part of Scouting history? Join the Jamboree staff and embark on an adventure like no other!

For more information on the Jamboree staff be sure to check out the Jamboree staff webinar from September 2024 at https://jamboree.scouting.org/councils/jamboree-informational-webinars/

National Jamboree

As a member of the Jamboree Staff, you deliver the Jamboree experience

What makes a Jamboree awesome? What is the key to a world-class, life-changing experience? It’s you. If you love Scouting and being part of a high-functioning team that delivers amazing experiences, then we want you on the 2026 National Jamboree Staff Team. The 2026 Jamboree will ELEVATE the Scouting experience for thousands of youth, and no matter your skillset, we need you to help deliver the promise of this historic event.

Staff Positions

There are two National Jamboree Staff Guides available, each designed to help you make the most of your experience! If you’re new to the Jamboree or eager to explore a wide range of exciting opportunities, dive into the General Interest guide. For returning staff members, the pillar-sorted guide makes it easy to find exactly what you need, so you can jump right into the adventure!

Why Be on STAFF at the National Jamboree?
The National Jamboree is a unique, once-in-a-lifetime event that draws thousands of Scouts, volunteers, and staff for a week filled with fun, adventure, and meaningful experiences. By joining as staff, you’ll become an integral part of the team that creates these memories for participants from all over the country. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider applying:

Be Part of a Tradition of Excellence
The National Jamboree is a cornerstone of Scouting culture in the United States, where generations of Scouts and leaders have gathered to celebrate the values of friendship, leadership, and community. As part of the staff, you’ll play an essential role in ensuring that this tradition continues to thrive. Your contribution will directly impact the lives of the Scouts attending and will leave a lasting legacy within the Scouting movement.
Develop New Skills and Gain Leadership Experience
Whether you’re looking to ELEVATE your resume or develop new skills, volunteering at the Jamboree is an incredible opportunity to learn and grow. From managing large teams to working in a variety of program areas (like aquatics, STEM, climbing, aerials, or outdoor activities), you’ll develop leadership, problem-solving, and organizational skills that will serve you both in your Scouting journey and beyond. It’s the ultimate hands-on experience in a fast-paced, high-energy environment.
Build Lifelong Friendships
The Jamboree brings together passionate individuals who share a common bond—the love of Scouting. As a volunteer, you’ll have the chance to work alongside a diverse group of people from all walks of life. Whether you’re making memories with fellow staff members or connecting with Scouts from across the nation, the bonds formed at the Jamboree will last a lifetime.
Make a Real Impact on Young Scouts
Your role will have a lasting impact on the lives of Scouts who will remember the experiences of the National Jamboree for years to come. As a staff member, you’ll create and lead activities that foster learning, growth, and camaraderie. Whether you’re leading a merit badge session, mentoring Scouts, or helping to create the event’s atmosphere, your involvement will help shape their Scouting journey.

What Are the Roles?
Administration, Aquatics, Civic and Inclusive Programing, Computer and Data Services, Contingent Operations, Ecology and Sustainability, Event Planning, Food Service, and High Adventure, Hospitality, Maintenance, Medical and Counseling, Music and Art, Outdoor Sports, Philanthropy and Sponsorships, Photography and Videography, Program Instruction and Facilitation, Public Safety and Management, Range and Target Sports, Religious Services, Scouting Programs and so much more.

Who Can Apply?
Whether you’re an experienced Scouter or a first-time volunteer, there’s a place for you at the National Jamboree. Positions are available for adults 18 and over, as well as older youth in leadership roles (at least 16 years old). If you have a passion for Scouting and a desire to help create an extraordinary experience for others, we want you to be part of the team. CLICK HERE for the National Jamboree Staff Website.

How to Apply?
The application process for the 2026 National Jamboree staff and volunteer positions is easy! Simply visit the official Jamboree website, fill out an application, and tell us about your skills and interests. After reviewing your application, we’ll be in touch to finalize your role and get you ready for the adventure ahead. CLICK HERE to apply now!

Don’t Miss Out!
The 2026 National Jamboree is going to be an event to remember, and we need you to help make it a success. Whether you’re looking to gain leadership experience, make lasting memories, or simply give back to the Scouting community, joining the Jamboree team will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.

So, what are you waiting for? Apply today and be a part of history in the making at the 2026 National Jamboree!

Staff Schedule

Staff arrive to set up the Summit Bechtel Reserve for the 2026 National Jamboree as early as July 19 and stay through departure day on July 31. We know that’s a big-time commitment. To help you make that commitment, as a staff member, you’re able to attend a part of the 2026 National Jamboree if it works better with your schedule. Staff members can attend in one of three sessions:

Session 1: July 19-31, 2026 (Full Jamboree)
Session 2: July 19-25, 2026 (First Half)
Session 3: July 25-31, 2026 (Second Half)

Staff Fees

Staff full fee – $1,060 for the full duration of the Jamboree
Staff reduced fee – $650 for the full duration of the Jamboree for staff aged 29 and under
Staff partial fee – $700 for one week of attendance at the Jamboree
Staff partial reduced fee – $400 for one week of attendance at the Jamboree for staff aged 29 and under

Staff Registration is open– register at https://jamboree.scouting.org/staff/.

COPE/Climbing

COPE & Climbing Level II

What is a Level 2 COPE or Climbing Instructor? A Level 2 COPE or Climbing Instructor is an instructor over 21 who has taken a course from a Program Manager or Program Trainer to be able to be the primary instructor of climbing or COPE events, depending on their training on that particular facility. They are assisted by another level 2 instructor or a level 1 instructor over age 18. They are capable of training Level 1 instructors to assist with COPE and Climbing events. A 6:1 ratio is necessary for participants actively participating with rope. Two instructors are required to run any event or program, so they can supervise up to 12 participants. Another instructor must be added for every 6 participants. The Level 2 instructor is proficient in the foundation skills of both COPE and Climbing, still up to date on their level 1 skills, and have taken a course in COPE or Climbing to expand their skills to Level 2 Instructor to those specific programs.

A Level 2 COPE or Climbing Instructor and his assisting level 2s or Level 1s can run a summer camp program if their Council and its Program Manager or Program Trainer wish to train summer camp staff. The Program Manager or Program Trainer is available to advise those who he or she trains and is responsible for vetting and monitoring the quality of that instructor’s operation; such that a Program Manager or Trainer’s training abilities can be reviewed or revoked if sub par training is discovered.

Many COPE and Climbing instructors both take a tower class. Some COPE instructors take a course from a council that may only have low COPE and then maybe a tower and a zip line. Some Climbing instructors may only take people climbing on local rock faces. Others may only operate their council’s indoor climbing wall. There are a variety of combinations, so in most councils (or at some times, collaborations of councils) that have a Program Manager or Program Trainer who teaches Level 2 instructors to run the programs for the facilities or rock in their council (or collaboration of councils) only.

This summer, we may see some councils for temporary or long standing collaborations with councils that have Program Managers or Program Trainers who teach on similar facilities due to the lack of availability of National Camping School courses because of Covid 19.

In this subcommittee chair’s opinion, becoming a COPE or Climbing Director at National Camping School often affords the Director the interaction with more than one out of council NCS Instructors, yielding a perspective possibly not available in a local council program, to his or her benefit, though I have seen many very strong Program Managers and Program Trainers’ training. To this end, councils that exclusively use the Program Manager or Program Trainer Program to train Level 2 COPE or Climbing Instructors have been informed of the new 2020 NCAP standard in SQ 409 that says as Program Manager’s cards expire, all who wish to continue to teach or develop Level 2 training programs within their councils will send someone back to National Camping School to get a COPE or Climbing Director card before they can take the Program Trainer card to train Level 2 Instructors; thus yielding the perspective of a return to National Camping School at least every 5 years to the Program Trainer who will pass his or her insight on to his Instructor candidates. Level 2 Instructors will no longer be allowed to become Program Trainers.

And as always, this sub-committee’s passion is to spread a love of climbing and challenge activities among units and the youth in them. Unit leaders who become Level 2 COPE or Climbing instructors will take youth climbing and out on challenge courses. They will foster growth, team building and challenging experiences for youth in many different types of units. Whether the unit leader or youth got his or her passion to teach or participate in climbing and COPE from attending a summer camp, or the unit members chose to further their instruction through a merit badge or instructor class at summer camp because they came from a troop who climbed, the Level 2 instructor trained by a Program Manager or Program Trainer can be the point where these passions begin to grow and expand. We love to see Units who take the Level 2 Instructor course who take youth climbing who grow up to be leaders who become Instructors to take youth climbing.

Continue to train safely.

COPE/Climbing

COPE and Climbing Facility Standards – Inspection and Reporting

As we are getting ready for camp and going through your checklist for opening (NCAP RP-855), one of the items on your list is your annual COPE and climbing facilities ACCT inspection. Let’s review NCAP standard FA-715 and how it applies to your camp and let’s focus on what you need to DO to be ready for your season.

Before you operate your COPE and climbing area(s) they must be inspected by a “qualified person.” This person is defined in the NCAP standard FA-715 and the inspection must take place each year (within 12 months) of operation. As a reminder someone who is trained as an NCS COPE or Climbing director alone is not qualified to do this professional inspection.

Your council will need to schedule this inspection NOW if you have not already done so. A list of professional ACCT vendors is found at https://www.acctinfo.org/vendor-directory. Inspectors book quickly so its essential you schedule this inspection right away if you have not already done so.

So you get the inspection, now what?

Taking charge: the councils’ responsibility
Your council plays a central role in overseeing the safety of your climbing and COPE courses. When inspections reveal areas of concern, it falls upon the council to address these issues swiftly and effectively, prioritizing the safety of all involved. This includes developing a plan to address any issues from the inspection. The NCAP standard allows you 60 days to develop the plan. You may ask “Can I use this element(s) during that time if it failed the inspection?” – NO once the inspector has labeled an element as a “fail”, your council must discontinue its use until the issues have been resolved. Does that mean my entire COPE course must shut down? – NO, you may continue to use those element(s) which pass inspection unless the use of a failed element would be needed to access the other elements.

Timely responses and thorough documentation
Your inspector must inform you immediately if there is an element(s) of the course that do not pass the inspection. This can be verbal, or in writing. Your role is to ask following the inspection “Were there any issues that you found?” Once you receive the inspection reports, the council will craft written responses outlining plans to rectify identified deficiencies. These responses are documented, providing a clear roadmap for addressing safety concerns and ensuring accountability throughout the process. Your NCAP assessment team will need to see the inspection reports along with the plan of action that addressed any concerns. These can be submitted with your Declaration of Readiness.

Collaborative efforts
Don’t go about this alone. Your council should engage a diverse array of stakeholders, including qualified professionals and experts, to develop comprehensive strategies for addressing inspection findings. Working with the inspector, installer, or manufacturer, along with your council committees will help you develop a plan to take corrective action. This plan must be in writing and available to your NCAP visitation team during the visit.

Implementing solutions
The primary objective of your council plan is to implement timely and effective corrective measures to correct any failures or issues. From structural enhancements to procedural adjustments, this plan should outline actions that are required and who will ensure they have been completed.

Verification and follow-up
Once the corrective actions have taken place a qualified person needs to approve and certify their completion prior to operation.

Cultivating a safety culture
Beyond mere compliance, council responses to inspection findings play a crucial role in fostering a culture of safety within our organization.

When it comes to outdoor adventures within Scouting America, safety always comes first. Thanks to the work of Scouting America councils and their responses to inspection findings, you can climb, swing, zip, and explore with confidence. Questions about your inspection requirements? Email outdoorprograms@scouting.org.

COPE/ClimbingNational Jamboree

CASTing Call: Extend Your Summer of Scouting at the 2026 National Jamboree

2025 August-September Edition

COPE/ClimbingNational Jamboree

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