Reflections from our World Scout Foundation Chair, Rob Woolford

Throughout 2023, the World Scout Foundation continued to drive momentum to significantly increase our support for World Scouting, and it has been a pleasure to take on the role of Chair in such an exciting period of transformation.

We have again grown our valued network of BP Fellows and other individual donors who care passionately about empowering young people through Scouting. We have also engaged with new institutional donors and partners, working with the World Organization of the Scout Movement, to leverage new opportunities and resources to boost the impact of Scouting worldwide. As always, it was a privilege to connect with so many of you throughout the year, including at our iconic annual event, held in 2023 in Kandersteg, Switzerland!

Read Rob’s full message »

About the World Scout Foundation

We believe that lasting positive change in the world happens when we empower young people to lead positive action in their communities — through Scouting.

In over 224 countries and territories, 57 million Scouts of all ages learn by doing, through a fun and challenging programme of quality educational activities, with a strong focus on active citizenship and community service. They develop key skills and behaviours that guide, encourage and enable them to lead positive action in society throughout their lives.

And with your continued support, we can reach even more young people from across the globe, to multiply this impact and drive long-lasting, positive change in society.

For Scouting. For Good. Together. 

Year in Review

Thanks to generous donations, increased outreach and dedicated volunteering by BP Fellows, 2023 was an excellent year for the Foundation. Hear from our CEO, Mark Knippenberg and discover some of the many highlights!

Our Impact

Discover the impact of your support and the incredible impact of Scouting through six very different, inspirational initiatives. Learn how Scouts are leading actions to build more resilient communities and meet the incredible Scouts at the heart of these stories!

Our Work

Throughout 2023, our BP Fellows, volunteers and staff came together to build relationships and the necessary platforms to help us achieve our collective vision of raising an additional USD 100 million for World Scouting. Learn about our work, including positive developments both in donation income and increased stakeholder engagement.

Donor Recognition

In 2023, our phenomenal global network of donors — individuals, foundations, corporations, and other partners — collectively raised over 4.7 million to grow and strengthen the impact of World Scouting. We also grew our global network welcoming new BP Fellows, donors and partners.

Financials

Year after year, we are making strides to build on the transparency and clarity of our reporting, and in this section of the annual report, we invite you to explore and understand how your donations are being taken care of to increase the impact of Scouting worldwide.

Governance

2023 was another exciting year for the Foundation as we continued to strengthen our governance and, in particular, our fundraising capacity to meet our Strategy, supported by volunteers and staff. We welcomed new Board and Committee Members to drive progress towards our annual and long-term fundraising goals.