Volunteer Opportunity -2026 Scouting America National Jamboree
As some of you know, the 2026 Scouting America Jamboree will take place July 23-31, 2026, at the Summit Betchel Reserve in Glen Jean, West Virginia – right in our own backyard.
Although this event is being hosted in West Virginia, it’s important to note that the effort is currently being led and promoted almost entirely by volunteers from outside of our state. A few of you may know that Illinois PLS Kyle Schultze has ben leading the initiative on behalf of NSPS, and the Pennsylvania Surveyor has already featured an article encouraging participation.
This is our opportunity to step up. Whether you’re available for one day, a few days, or the full event, your time and expertise could directly impact the next generation of surveyors. Let’s ensure that WVSPS is not just represented – but fully engaged in 2026.
In 2023, more than 250 Scouts earned the Surveying Merit Badge at the Jamboree. The response was overwhelming, and some youth had to be turned away due to limited staffing. Unfortunately, WVSPS was not represented at that event – something several members have since asked about. Until now, no formal outreach had been made, and I’d like to change that.
About the Opportunity
Scouts earn the Surveying Merit Badge by rotating through three hands-on learning stations:
- Introduction (history, GPS, safety)
- Field Work (robotic total stations and levels)
- Office Work (plat sketching, legal descriptions, and deed research)
Ways to Volunteer
1. On-Site Staff (Camp at the Jamboree)
- Arrive July 19 to assist with setup
- Tent camping; meals provided
- Requires registration with Scouting America, Youth Protection Training, and a background check
- Cost:
-
- Full Event (July 19–31): $1,060 ($650 if under 29)
- Session 1 (July 19–25): $700 ($400 if under 29)
- Session 2 (July 25–31): $700 ($400 if under 29)
- Note: NSPS is actively fundraising and may help cover part or all of these costs
2. Day Staff (Off-Site Volunteers)
- No registration or background check required
- Stay locally (hotel, Airbnb, or at home if nearby)
- Shuttle provided from off-site parking
- Approximate cost: $25/day, plus meals and lodging
How to Get Involved
Whether you plan to volunteer as on-site staff or day staff, please contact Kyle Schultze at kyle.schultze@gmail.com prior to registering or signing up. Kyle will provide detailed instructions, help answer any questions, and ensure you’re included on the Surveying Merit Badge team.
When reaching out, please include:
- Your name
- Best contact information
- Your availability (even if tentative)
- Whether you’re interested in on-site or day staff
If cost is a concern, please let Kyle know — NSPS is actively fundraising and may be able to assist.
Let’s show the nation that West Virginia surveyors aren’t just hosting this event — we’re leading it.
Sincerely,
Dwayne Hall
President, West Virginia Society of Professional Surveyors