Merit badges have been a fixture of the Boy Scouts of America since its inception in 1910. The requirements that generations of Scouts have completed have taught lifetime citizenship lessons, personal fitness habits, and life skills. They have been the beginnings of countless careers and lifetime hobbies.  In the last 99 years, there have been many changes in the merit badge offerings. As society has changed, the Boy Scouts of America has adapted by revising the requirements, implementing name changes, adding new merit badges, and in some instances, eliminating some badges altogether.

A merit badge called "Computers" would sound just a crazy to a 1910 Boy Scout as a merit badge called "Tracking" sounds to Scouts today. That’s because the BSA’s list of available merit badges has evolved through the years as the interests of boys have changed.

Program Concept:

We want every Scout, adult leader, and Scouting alum to have the chance to be part of our biggest milestone yet—our 1OOth Anniversary Celebration. We want to fire up the passion for Scouting while giving everyone an opportunity to make a difference—and earn recognition. Through A Year of Celebration, A Century of Making a Difference, we will do just that. Individuals can earn awards by demonstrating dedication to five of Scouting’s core values—Leadership, Achievement, Community Service, Character, and the Outdoors. Participants can earn one award in each category. The program will be both fun and engaging and, most important, will show America the impact of Scouting through its commitment to these values. A Year of Celebration will be in effect from Sept. 1, 2009, through Dec. 31, 2010.