OA In Your Unit

OA Unit Representative Patch

The Order of the Arrow unit representative is a youth liaison serving between the local OA lodge or chapter and their unit. In their unit, they help meet the needs of the unit and will serve as a communication and programmatic link to and from Arrowmen, adult leaders and Scouts who are not presently members of the OA. They will do this in a fashion that strengthens the mission of the lodge, purpose of the OA, and the mission of the Boy Scouts of America. By setting a good example, they will enhance the image of the OA as a service arm to their unit.

The OA unit representative is considered a position of responsibility within the unit. In the case of Scouts BSA troops, a separate position patch has been developed.

Individual Scouts fulfilling this role assume the following leadership positions:

  • Scouts BSA troop: Troop OA Representative
  • Venturing Crew: Crew Guide
  • Sea Scout Ship: Sea Scout Specialist

OA Unit Representative Duties:

  • Serves as a communication link between the lodge or chapter and the unit.
  • Encourages year round and resident camping in the unit.Encourages older Scout participation in high adventure programs.
  • Encourages Scouts to actively participate in community service projects. • Assists with leadership skills training in the unit.
  • Encourages elected OA candidates to complete their induction.
  • Encourages Arrowmen to assume leadership positions in the unit.
  • Encourages Arrowmen in the unit to be active participants in the lodge and/or chapter activities
  • Sets a good example.
  • Enthusiastically wears the Scout uniform correctly.
  • Lives by the Scout Oath, Scout Law and OA Obligation.
  • Shows Scout spirit.

Qualifications

  • Under 18 years old
  • Appointed by senior youth leader in the unit with unit leader approval
  • OA member in good standing

Reports To

Designated youth leader within the unit (e.g., assistant senior patrol leader in a troop, crew president in a Venturing crew or ship’s boatswain in a Sea Scout ship)