THE SCOUTS PROGRAM

Building stronger youth. Stronger teams. Stronger communities.

Jordin Tootoo with Notre Dame students from Nunavut

The SCOUTS Program is an initiative designed to support youth development by reducing barriers to participation in sports. The program provides assistance with registration fees, equipment costs, educational support, and other participation-related needs, ensuring that young individuals have the opportunity to grow physically, socially, and emotionally and as leaders through athletic involvement.

Cute boy learning to ice skate and play hockey with his couch at indoors rink. Staying next to goal and holding hockey stick
S

Strength

Building physical, mental, and personal strength through sports.

C

Confidence

Helping youth believe in themselves and try new challenges.

O

Opportunity

Creating chances for youth to learn, grow, and develop leadership through sport.

U

Understanding

Teaching that hard work and dedication lead to rewards and new opportunities.

T

Teamwork

Learning how to support teammates, share responsibility, and lead together.

S

Sportsmanship

Developing respect, empathy, and fairness toward others.

The first round of application reviews will begin on September 1st, 2026. Please read the application guidelines and eligibility requirements below before beginning your application.

Scouts Program Application Guidelines and Eligibility

1. Application Submission

Interested youth, parents/guardians, coaches, schools, or community organizations submit an application that includes:

  • Applicant information 
  • Age and community affiliation 
  • Sport(s) of interest 
  • Current participation level 
  • Description of financial, social, or accessibility barriers 
  • Personal statement outlining goals and interests 

2. Eligibility Review

Applications are reviewed to ensure applicants align with the program’s objectives of:

  • Increasing access to organized sport 
  • Supporting leadership development 
  • Providing mentorship opportunities 
  • Creating safe and inclusive sport environments 
  • Encouraging personal growth and community engagement

3. Assessment and Selection

A SCOUTS review committee evaluates applications based on:

  • Demonstrated need 
  • Commitment and interest in sport 
  • Potential benefit from mentorship and leadership programming 
  • Geographic and community representation 
  • Alignment with program values and objectives

Selected applicants may be contacted for additional information or clarification during the review process.

4. Interview or Follow-Up Discussion

Selected applicants may participate in a brief interview (virtual or in-person) with a program representative to discuss:

  • Personal goals and aspirations
  • Areas where support is needed 
  • Current challenges and barriers to participation
  • Leadership interests and opportunities for growth

5. Acceptance and Program Matching

Successful applicants are matched with appropriate program opportunities, which may include:

  • Financial assistance for sport participation 
  • Leadership development activities 
  • Mentorship connections with experienced sports leaders
  • Team-building and character development programs 
  • Access to educational and personal development resources

6. Orientation

Participants and families will attend an orientation session, either virtually or in person, covering:

  • Program expectations and participant responsibilities
  • SCOUTS core values of teamwork, sportsmanship, confidence, respect, and leadership.
  • Available resources and support systems 

7. Ongoing Participation and Evaluation

Participants are encouraged to actively engage in SCOUTS programming throughout the year. Periodic check-ins will help measure:

  • Leadership development 
  • Personal growth and confidence
  • Continued participation in sport 
  • Academic and community engagement
  • Achievement of individual goals

8. Program Completion and Alumni Opportunities

Upon completion, participants receive recognition and may be invited to:

  • Serve as peer mentors 
  • Assist with SCOUTS events and activities
  • Participate in leadership ambassador opportunities
  • Continue involvement through the SCOUTS Alumni Network