At the 2026 National Annual Meeting, Scouting America unveiled the results of a major new research study examining the long-term impact of earning the rank of Eagle Scout.
The study, Eagle Scouts: A Legacy of Values-Based Leadership and Service, was conducted in partnership with The Harris Poll and surveyed more than 3,100 adults, including Eagle Scouts, Scouts who did not earn the Eagle rank, and individuals who never participated in Scouting. The goal was to better understand how the Scouting experience influences leadership, character, service, and personal well-being throughout life.
The findings reinforce what generations of Scouts, families, and volunteers have witnessed firsthand: Scouting develops young people into capable leaders, engaged citizens, and individuals of strong character.
Eagle Scouts Stand Out
According to the study, Eagle Scouts report higher levels of life satisfaction, stronger personal relationships, greater community involvement, and a more positive outlook on life than their non-Scout peers. Eagle Scouts were also more likely to hold leadership positions in their workplaces and communities and to believe they can make a positive impact in the world around them.
Among the most notable findings:
- 99% of Eagle Scouts say Scouting had a positive influence on their lives.
- 98% report that Scouting positively impacted their leadership abilities.
- 95% say Scouting helped shape their personal values.
- 95% agree that they are happy with the person they are today.
- Eagle Scouts are more likely to volunteer, engage in their communities, and take on leadership roles throughout adulthood.
Benefits Extend Beyond Eagle
The study also found that all Scouts—not just Eagle Scouts—experience meaningful benefits from participation in Scouting. Compared to individuals who never participated in Scouting, Scouts are more likely to:
- Have a positive outlook on life.
- Build strong relationships with family and friends.
- Set and achieve personal goals.
- Serve their communities.
- Take on leadership responsibilities.
These findings demonstrate that the values and experiences gained through Scouting continue to shape participants long after their youth membership has ended.
A Powerful Message for Families and Supporters
The research also revealed that Americans recognize the value of Scouting. Nine out of ten non-Scouts surveyed agreed that Scouting helps young people develop character, respect others, and become more likely to volunteer in their communities. Nearly two-thirds said America would be worse off without Scouting, and more than 70% indicated they would be more likely to trust someone if they knew they were a Scout.
For families considering Scouting and for community leaders who support the program, the study provides compelling evidence that Scouting continues to deliver meaningful outcomes in an increasingly complex world.
Explore the Full Study
We encourage parents, volunteers, alumni, donors, and community partners to review and share the interactive report to learn more about the lasting impact of Scouting and the Eagle Scout experience.
View the full interactive study:
https://www.scouting.org/about/research/eagle-scout-2026/
Download the study at:
https://www.scouting.org/about/research/eagle-scout-2026/
For more than a century, Scouting has helped young people develop character, leadership, citizenship, and service. This new research confirms that those values continue to make a difference—not only in the lives of Scouts, but in the communities they serve.
