BSA National has announced recently that it is planning to launch a “MySpace-type social network site … that will allow Scouts, volunteers and alumni to connect and share stories.” (See this (link) August 12, 2008 Dallas Morning News article.)
It appears that the new online service in beta is up and running. The “Scouting Community” information page has the following description:
“Now, here, you have the means to reach out within the Scouting world to make friends and share Scouting lore with members of the our own special community—a place where identities are known and values are shared, accessible only to persons already qualified for membership in the BSA, 18 years of age or older.
Because the web is such a dynamic environment, we’ve decided to make this initial offering a modest one–for now, the sheer ability to let Scouters voice opinions, form groups and organize thoughts into topical areas. Ultimately, however, Scout users will determine the nature of this online venture. Will merely posting ideas be the most popular feature? Or will it be the ability to form groups? Will large collaborations, such as a vast “Scout wiki”, lie next along the path of development?. Only time, and your use of this site will tell.
So for now, dive in! Tell us about yourself. Invite a Scout friend to come aboard, and start sharing ideas. You may choose to stay within face-to-face range, or open the scope of your Scouting experience beyond your Scouting district or even your own council to the entire BSA.” [Bold added]
