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/
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