What is the Order of the Arrow?
For over 100 years, the Order of the Arrow (OA) has recognized Scouts and Scouters who exemplify the Scout Oath and Law daily. The OA is Scouting’s National Honor Society. As an integral part of Scouting America, the OA delivers peer-led advanced leadership experiences that help to build lifelong bonds through service and enrich each member’s Scouting journey. OA members are defined by the fellowship they share, service to others, commitment to personal growth, and self-driven initiative to make a difference in their community.
The Mission of the Order of the Arrow
To achieve the mission of Scouting America through transformative fellowship that ignites limitless Scouting journeys.
The Purpose of the Order of the Arrow
As Scouting’s National Honor Society, we forge lifelong bonds among the leaders in Scouting and:
- Recognize those who exemplify the Scout Oath and Law in their daily lives and, through that recognition, cause others to act in the same way.
- Reinforce a life purpose of leadership in cheerful service to others.
- Create and deliver peer-led, adult-guided, advanced leadership experiences for Scouts and Scouters that positively impact their unit, community, and ultimately our nation.
- Be an integral part of Scouting America and encourage participation in all it offers through units, outdoor adventures, and national events to further the Scouting experience.