Since its founding in 1915 on the grounds of Treasure Island Scout Reservation, the Order of the Arrow has had a rich history of developing Scouts into exemplary leaders grounded in the ideals of Brotherhood, Cheerfulness, and Service. Through its signature program, the National Order of the Arrow Conference, Arrowmen from across Scouting will have the chance to further the impact of the Order of the Arrow for generations to come.
The Order is completely self-funded, relying on its own event fees, annual dues, and the generosity of Scouters to support its programming. The Order of the Arrow created the OA Endowment Fund to secure its financial future while providing support to Scouting at the local level through programs like the Lodge Service Grant and training programs.
“Over the years, the endowment has supported countless initiatives,” shared Mike Hoffman, past national chairman and lead adviser for the NOAC 2024 Endowment Committee, “including the National Leadership Seminar, high adventure programs, and the preservation of OA traditions.”
Hoffman encouraged everyone interested in learning more about the OA Endowment Fund to explore the website at oa-bsa.org/endowment.
Two easy ways for the everyday Arrowmen to support the OA Endowment Fund are through the endowment trading post and the national patch auction. In the trading post, exclusive items will be available, and each purchase supports the endowment.
“The trading post is a unique opportunity for Arrowmen to acquire limited-edition items,” explained Hoffman, “with all proceeds directly supporting the OA Endowment Fund.”
The national patch auction, meanwhile, allows Arrowmen to bid on a wide array of rare and vintage OA patches. Some of the patches will even date back to the earliest days of the Order.
“The excitement and competitive spirit of the auction not only provide entertainment,” shared Hoffman, “but also serve as a significant fundraiser for the OA Endowment.”
Arrowmen can also directly contribute to the OA Endowment Fund by joining one of the fund’s giving societies. Legacy Fellowships recognize Arrowmen who make an immediate or five-year pledged contribution to the OA Endowment Fund. Alternatively, the Goodman Society recognizes Arrowmen who contribute through planned giving, such as a will or charitable trust. Information on how to join these societies is available at oa-bsa.org/endowment/ways-to-give and will also be available at the trading post during NOAC. Members of these societies will be recognized with special gatherings during the conference, where they will have the chance to hear from OA and Scouting leaders about the future of Scouting and the Order and engage in fellowship.
Regardless of how you contribute, as the Order of the Arrow forges into the future, the OA Endowment Fund is poised to help secure the lasting impact of the program and provide Arrowmen the chance to leave a lasting impact on the OA’s future.
“The OA Endowment Fund continues to grow,” remarked Hoffman, “ensuring that future generations of Scouts can benefit from the Order’s programs and opportunities.”