The Boy Scouts of America have always relied on volunteers to make the organization run.

The registration process for adult leaders includes a personal reference and criminal background check, nomination by the committee chairman, followed by appointment by the chartering organization and concluding with acceptance by the district executive (a professional Scouter who is an employee of the local Scout council).

[2] Scoutmasters are responsible for developing and delivering the "program" or the training of youth leadership in how to plan and run a Scout troop's activities.

For example, they may be assisted by youth leaders (see quartermaster) or they may provide technical training to the Scouts as merit badge counselors.

Committee members most important direct interaction with Scouts occurs during boards of review.

Committee members assemble in groups of 3 to 6 in order to constitute boards of review.

The training continuum for both positions includes "Youth Protection", "Fast Start" and "New Leader's Essentials."

In Scouts BSA the beginning training is the unit-level course, Introduction to Leadership Skills for Troops.

[13] Local commissioners formed the first councils and started the tradition of direct support to the Scoutmaster.

[15] The position of International Commissioner represents the BSA within the World Organization of the Scout Movement.

The roundtable is a forum for all of the unit leaders and provides opportunities for discourse and training.

[33][32] Commissioners are expected to complete Basic Leader Training so that they have the essential information they need to provide a safe and successful quality program.

Advanced and supplemental training is generally performed at a commissioners college provided at the local council level.

[38] The laurel wreath is a traditional Roman symbol of victory, triumph, accomplishment, and civic service.

The BSA uses the laurel as a symbol for the service rendered to units and the continued partnership between volunteers and professionals.