Many troops believe that Order of the Arrow is an organization that steals Scouts away from troop activities. When in reality OA is what keeps our troops alive. Order of the Arrow provides many opportunities that help Scouts and even Scouters grow as leaders, but this doesn’t happen overnight. It takes active involvement and going outside one’s comfort zone to fully gain the traits that the OA tries to instill in each and every Arrowman.
Not only does the OA instill leadership skills, but also provides opportunities for the older scouts. For some this might not seem like a big deal, yet without the OA there would be a severe drop in the number of Eagle Scouts each year. There are so many programs that are offered to older scouts from OA High Adventure, NOAC, even Operation Arrow. These programs take Arrowmen to many of Scouting America’s properties and events. National programs aren’t the only activities offered by Order of the Arrow, for local events through the Chapter and Lodge.
The OA is not meant to be a nuisance or a parasite to our troops, but it is meant to be an aide to the troops in retaining their members by helping provide activities and new experiences. Arrowmen are taught to give back to their troops and communities because the Order of the Arrow is Scouting’s National Honor Society. We are not an organization out to verse Scouting, but to give recognition and lifechanging skills to Scouting’s older scouts. The success of both groups is only accomplished if we work together towards providing a wonderful experience for all Scouts and Scouters.