About The GSC – Garden State Council

Our Story

The Garden State Council, chartered by Scouting America, powers life-changing experiences for young people across South Jersey. Rooted in a legacy that began in 1910, Scouting was built on a simple but powerful idea: service shapes stronger individuals and stronger communities. That mission continues today through dynamic, hands-on programs that build character, leadership, and a sense of purpose.

Across Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, and Salem counties—as well as Buena Vista Township and Buena Borough in Atlantic County, the Garden State Council supports a vibrant network of Scouts and dedicated volunteers. As one of the largest youth-serving organizations in the region, it brings together thousands of young people and passionate adult leaders who mentor, guide, and inspire every step of the way.

Every program challenges, engages, and prepares the next generation, equipping young people with the skills and confidence to make a real impact. Guided by the mission and vision of Scouting America, the Garden State Council continues to shape futures while strengthening communities across South Jersey.

Scouts in uniform presenting the American and council flags during an indoor ceremony.

From first adventures to advanced leadership opportunities, programs grow with each participant:

Cub Scouts

Grades K - 5

We’re all about encouraging boys and girls to make friends, be helpful to others, and do their very best no matter the outcome.

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Scouts BSA

Ages 11 - 17

Scouts BSA is the traditional Scouting experience where boys and girls can have their share of adventure in the great outdoors.

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Sea Scouts

Ages 14 - 20

For over 100 years Sea Scouting has promoted better citizenship and improved members’ boating skills through instruction and practice in water safety, boating skills, outdoor, social, service experiences, and knowledge of our maritime heritage.

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Venturing

Ages 14 - 20

Venturing is a youth-led program all about building adventures with your friends. Choose to do activities that matter to you and develop essential skills like leadership, event-planning, organization, communication, and responsibility while having a blast!

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Exploring

Ages 14 - 20

Exploring provides exciting activities and mentorship for youth looking to discover their future. Whether you’re a local organization looking to strengthen the community or a young person wanting to uncover the possibilities of your future, Exploring is a great place to start.

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Our Mission

The mission of Scouting America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

Our Vision

Scouting America will prepare every eligible youth in America to become a responsible, participating citizen and leader guided by the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

Scout Oath: On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.

Scout Law: A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.

Our Purpose

The mission of Scouting America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

Support Our Scouting Troops

Support can take many forms: Donate through Friends of Scouting, purchase popcorn or camp cards from a local Scout, attend our Women of Achievement dinner or regional Citizenship Awards dinners, and so much more. Your support of Scouting enables Garden State Council to support the experiences of nearly 5,000 youth throughout South Jersey!

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