Dear Scouting Friend,
We are writing to you once again as a follow-up to last night’s CVC Status Update letter regarding the proposed merger with Heart of Virginia Council (HOVC). That letter from CVC leadership makes one point clear: the HOVC merger is being prioritized and “will proceed unimpeded”—solely because it is described as “time sensitive.”
But what does “time sensitive” really mean? From what we can connect between all the documents, this urgency appears tied to professional leadership transitions—specifically, the soon to be vacant HOVC Scout Executive role—rather than objective data supporting this merger as the best choice for Scouts and Scouters in Hampton Roads.
While the Hampton Roads Scouting Alliance strongly supports CVC remaining independent, we recognize that consolidation may become necessary. If that happens, Tidewater Council (TWC) has demonstrated greater transparency by sharing detailed, data-driven analysis of why they are a strong candidate for partnership including budget performance, membership, and finances. To date, no comparable information has been specifically provided regarding the proposed HOVC and CVC merger from either council.
Adding to this discussion, CST-15 youth membership data through October 2025 was published today, and it highlights key council membership differences between HOVC and TWC:
- Heart of Virginia: 5,639 youth (-334 youth, -5.59% since 2021)
- Tidewater: 3,936 youth (+98 youth, +2.55% since 2021)
Heart of Virginia may be a larger council but it has experienced a steady decline over time. Tidewater has shown overall growth since 2021 and remains relatively stable.
What does this suggest?
- A merger with HOVC would align CVC with a council facing long-term membership challenges.
- Tidewater offers stronger stability and cultural alignment for Hampton Roads.
- CVC remaining independent is still an option.
This decision will shape Scouting in Hampton Roads for decades. It should not be rushed. We urge the CVC executive board to pause the fast-tracked HOVC process and vote during their meeting tomorrow, Thursday Nov 20, to take the time to fully evaluate every option— including remaining independent or consolidating with Tidewater Council (TWC).
Before any irreversible decision is made, members deserve equal facts and a fair comparison of all possibilities—not one based solely on urgency.
To put it simply, Scouts and Scouters in Hampton Roads deserve: Equal facts. Informed decisions. A stronger future for Scouting in our region.
Nothing about the proposed HOVC merger is inevitable. Even if National or CST 15 leaders and professionals express a preference, Colonial Virginia Council remains an independent organization. Its duty is to act in the best interest of the Scouts and Scouters in their community—not simply follow what CST or National desires.
If you are a CVC member and frustrated with the current fast-tracked HOVC proposal, talk to a Council Voting Member and express your concerns. If the HOVC process continues, Voting Members will have a vote on the final decision of the merger—your voice matters now more than ever.
Who are Council Voting Members?
Voting Members are individuals who have the right to vote at the council’s annual meeting and on major decisions like mergers. This includes:
- Your unit’s Chartered Organization Representative (COR) – appointed by your chartered organization and automatically a voting member.
- Council Members-at-Large – elected volunteers serving on the council.
Your COR is your direct voice in this process. If you don’t know who your COR is, ask your unit leadership—they represent your chartered organization and will vote if the HOVC merger moves forward.
You can review all merger-related documents released so far here:
View Documents
If you have merger-related documents, data, or insights that have not yet been shared, we invite you to send them to us via email or this page. Your privacy will be fully protected, and we will take every measure to safeguard against any form of retaliation.
Please forward and share this message widely with other Scouting families and leaders. They can also sign up via this form. The more informed voices we have, the stronger our ability to protect Hampton Roads Scouting.
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Thank you for your attention to this important matter. Together, we can ensure that every option—including independence and a partnership that reflects Hampton Roads’ unique culture—is fully considered before any irreversible decision is made.
Together, let us Protect Hampton Roads Scouting and secure the best possible future for our youth.
Yours in Scouting,
Concerned People of Colonial Virginia Council and Tidewater Council
Hampton Roads Scouting Alliance – Protect Hampton Roads Scouting
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About Hampton Roads Scouting Alliance
The Hampton Roads Scouting Alliance is a newly formed coalition of dedicated members, volunteers, leaders, and staff from Colonial Virginia Council (CVC) and Tidewater Council (TWC). Our mission is simple yet vital: to protect and strengthen Scouting in Hampton Roads by ensuring the best possible future for our youth, families, and communities.
We believe Scouting thrives when it reflects the values and needs of the communities it serves. Hampton Roads is a unique region—connected by shared geography, economy, and culture—and our Alliance exists to advocate for decisions that keep Scouting strong and accessible for every family.
Our Goals:
- Preserve local Scouting programs and leadership opportunities so youth and volunteers remain connected to their communities.
- Promote collaboration between councils for better service, stronger programs, and shared resources.
- Ensure any consolidation decisions prioritize affordability, accessibility, and growth for all families in Hampton Roads.
- Protect the unique Scouting culture of Hampton Roads—its traditions, volunteer spirit, and community ties—so future generations experience the same strong local identity that has defined Scouting here for decades.
Together, we stand for Scouting that works for Hampton Roads, not decisions that make it harder for families to participate.