The International Division, Boy Scouts of America, has announced the selection process for participation in the first Philmont International Trek from June 18-29, 2008. The trek will include 20 youth participants, 10 from around the world and 10 from the BSA. The ages of eligible Scouts / Venturers are not less than 16 years of age by June 18, 2008 and not more than 19 years of age by June 29, 2008. 

The method of selection will be an original written essay on the topic "As a Scout / Venturer, I could convince more young people from my community (and surrounding communities) to join Scouting by organizing a membership recruitment plan that included these important steps / elements." Each Council in the BSA can select a single Scout / Venturer based on the best essay submitted. Essays are limited to not more than 1,500 words in length. The essay is due to the Council International Representative the first week of January 2008.  Council's can submit only one nomination and the final Council selection is due to the International Division by January 31, 2008.  A team of selected volunteers will make the final selection for the International Division.

The Scouts / Venturers selected will depart their homes for Dallas on Wednesday June 18, 2008, arrive at Philmont on June 19, 2008 to begin the trek, arrive back in Dallas on June 28, 2008, and return home on June 29, 2008. All expenses, except pocket money, will be paid by the Boy Scouts of America, to include all travel costs.

Get your application into your council today for the chance of a lifetime!