 The BSA is a constituent member of the World Organization of the Scout Movement . The traditional Scouting divisions are Cub Scouting for boys ages 7 to 10 ½ years , Boy Scouting for boys ages 10 ½ to 18 and Venturing for young men and women ages 14 ( or 13 and having completed the 8th grade ) through 21 . Learning for Life is a non @-@ traditional subsidiary that provides in @-@ school and career education . The BSA operates traditional Scouting by chartering local organizations , such as churches , clubs , civic associations , or educational organization , to implement the Scouting program for youth within their communities . Units are led entirely by volunteers appointed by the chartering organization , who are supported by local councils using both paid Professional Scouters and volunteers . 
