WOOD BADGE
Seek Clarity, Shine Brilliantly!
July 12–19, 2025
Camp Freedom, Oberdachstetten, Germany
Experience the Ultimate Leadership Training with Wood Badge
Wood Badge is the premier advanced leadership and team-building course designed for adult volunteers within Scouting America. With a rich history rooted in the vision of Robert Baden-Powell, Wood Badge has evolved into a transformative experience that equips leaders with skills applicable in Scouting and beyond. Whether you are guiding a local unit, supporting a district, or enhancing a council’s impact, this training is an essential step in your leadership journey.
A Legacy of Leadership
Since its inception in 1919, Wood Badge has been the pinnacle of adult leader development, blending the best practices of leadership training with the traditions of Scouting. With over 100,000 participants worldwide, this course unites passionate individuals who share a common goal—empowering youth through exceptional leadership.
Why Attend Wood Badge?
Wood Badge is more than just training; it is an immersive experience that fosters personal growth, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of leadership principles. Participants engage in dynamic presentations, group discussions, and hands-on activities, all designed to develop essential leadership skills. Unlike outdoor-focused training, Wood Badge concentrates on leadership development, communication, and unit organization, ensuring that participants leave with a clear vision and actionable strategies for success.
A Unique Training Experience
During the course, participants take part in a structured program that mirrors a month in the life of a unit. The journey begins with an introduction phase, progresses through team-building exercises, and culminates in practical applications of leadership models widely recognized in business, education, and outdoor leadership organizations. The experience is designed to strengthen leaders’ abilities to mentor others, improve unit dynamics, and foster long-term success within Scouting America.
Course Details
Dates: July 12–19, 2025 (Arrival by 19:00 CET July 12 required – early arrivals can be accommodated)
Staff Dates: July 8–19, 2025
Location: Camp Freedom
Course Fee: $325 ($350 after June 1, 2025)
Deposit: $100 secures your spot
A Double Win for Your Unit
This year, Wood Badge coincides with the National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) at Camp Freedom. Leaders are encouraged to take advantage of this unique opportunity by sending both adults and youth for training at the same time, streamlining travel and maximizing the benefits for their units.
Join the ranks of dedicated Scouting America leaders who have completed Wood Badge and transformed their leadership skills. Register today and take the next step in shaping the future of your unit and community!
Getting the time off Work
Many companies will authorize time off to attend Wood Badge as part of training for your current or future work position, rather than requiring you to use your accrued personal time off.
For those in the US military, a request for permissive TDY can also be granted for time being given to a volunteer organization. Check with your commanding officer for details by your branch of service.
Likewise, civilians associated with the US government, administrative leave can be granted for time being given to a volunteer organization. Check with your supervisor or human resource office for details.
To obtain a copy of the permissive TDY request letter, or to obtain a copy of the civilian letter to present to your employer requesting time off to attend Wood Badge, please email the Course Director, Pattie Nortman.
Have you attended Wood Badge?
Interested in serving on staff for the July 2025 course? Do you have questions? Or just would like some general information?
Please contact Course Director Pattie Nortman
New to TAC?
You will have to register yourself with our Council in order for us to let you know of Wood Badge opportunities as well as other leadership opportunities
Financial Assistance in the form of Camperships is a resource available to Scouts and Leaders who may have limited financial resources to help them attend a TAC camp or program. Apply here.
