Religious Emblems
To encourage members to grow stronger in their faith, many religious groups have developed religious emblems programs. The Boy Scouts of America has approved these programs and allows the emblems to be worn on the official uniform. The various religious groups administer the programs and set requirements for study and service, completed under the guidance of a counselor. Contact the council service center or check the contact list at scouting.org for additional information.
National Outdoor Awards
The National Outdoor Awards program recognizes Scouts BSA and Venturers who are tough and disciplined enough to hike or ride the miles, camp the nights, run the rivers or lakes, or do the work to conserve the land. This series of six badges can be earned by Scouts and Venturers who demonstrate exemplary knowledge and experience in high-level outdoor activities in the areas of camping, aquatics, conservation, hiking, riding, or adventure.
Beyond these six segments, the National Medal for Outdoor Achievement is the highest recognition that a Scout BSA or Venturer can earn for exemplary achievement, experience, and skill in multiple areas of outdoor endeavor.
Mile Swim
A tradition at Scout summer camps, the Mile Swim is a challenge that takes many Scouts several attempts to complete. The award requires not only swimming a measured mile without interruption but also participating in training and learning about the health benefits of swimming as exercise. The Mile Swim badge is worn on swim trunks rather than the official uniforms.