The Order of the Arrow (OA) Service Corps, steeped in a rich history of determined and selfless Arrowmen, plays an integral role in ensuring the smooth operation of national jamborees. Since its inception with 36 members at the 1950 National Jamboree, the Service Corps has expanded in tandem with the growth of the event, solidifying its significance at the 2023 National Jamboree.
Being a member of the Service Corps offers an unparalleled experience beyond any other participant or staffing role. It provides the unique opportunity to immerse oneself fully in the event, collaborate with Arrowmen from across the nation, engage in meaningful service, and proudly represent the OA within the broader Scouting community. By serving at a national level, Service Corps members embody the true essence of being an OA member.
Mitch Leonard, a 2013 Service Corps member, shared his unforgettable experience at the Summit Bechtel Reserve: “Being a part of the OA Service Corps is a chance to leave a lasting impact while forging lifelong bonds with fellow Arrowmen.”
Service Corps members are assigned to a chapter, working alongside a team of 25 individuals, led by a section chief (a youth leader in the OA) and supported by two adult advisers. Chapter meetings will be held in the weeks leading up to the jamboree to foster team bonding and kickstart the journey.
The OA Service Corps is just one of two ways the Order of the Arrow is showing up at the 2023 National Jamboree. Along with selfless service, mostly behind the scenes, is a mountain top experience, Summit Apex. In a future article, we will preview what you can expect. As a tease, Summit Apex is a new program at jamboree that will function as an “outpost” area with a festival and rally celebrating the lived experience all jamboree participants share in Scouting through fun and meaningful activities. This half-day experience will be scheduled for each unit which can be found in the official Jamboree app.
For any inquiries or further information, please reach out to OA Service Corps leadership at [email protected].