Dear Scouting Friend,
Scouting in Hampton Roads has always been about building character, leadership, and lifelong values. Today, we face a decision that will shape that future for decades—but it is not final yet.
Scouting America Colonial Virginia Council (CVC) recently announced merger discussions with Heart of Virginia Council (HOVC). That announcement was for due diligence only—not an official vote to merge. Nothing is final yet. There is still time, if we act together, to ensure the best outcome for our Scouts and Scouters.
Many volunteers believe independence is still the best option—and that remains on the table. However, if council consolidation is to be considered, Tidewater Council (TWC) is a partner that truly aligns with Colonial Virginia Council’s Scouting mission and our shared Hampton Roads culture.
Our Hampton Roads region is unique. Families on the Peninsula and Southside share the same economy, media market, and daily life. Scouts and Scouters already cross these boundaries for work, school, and activities. A consolidation between CVC and TWC would strengthen these natural ties, while a merger with HOVC would shift focus toward Richmond—away from the communities we serve.
This decision is incredibly important and will directly impact every Scout and Scouter in Colonial Virginia Council and the Hampton Roads area for decades to come. Here are some things to keep in mind if consolidation is considered:
- Membership Costs: Consolidating with Tidewater Council (TWC) would drop CVC’s annual program fees to just $24 per youth, compared to $85 under Heart of Virginia Council (HOVC). Lower fees make Scouting more affordable for families and helps recruit and retain members. Higher fees make recruiting harder and could force families out of Scouting.
- Travel Burden: HOVC’s camp is on the northwest side of Richmond and hours away for most CVC families. Compare that to Pipsico Scout Reservation, which is in CVC service territory. CVC Scouts and Scouters already camp and hold OA events at Pipsico.
- Lost Local Focus: Council and lodge events for CVC members will shift toward Richmond, reducing access for Hampton Roads youth and volunteers.
- OA and Volunteer Investments: Years of service and resources poured into Pipsico would lose value for CVC members. Local programs developed by CVC and TWC risk being sidelined and abandoned. Collaboration between OA lodges and the Busy Beavers team will be lost.
Independence is still an option, and many believe that it is best. But if the path to any consolidation is explored and considered, Tidewater Council is the clear choice. TWC shares Hampton Roads communities, has strong finances, lower fees, and a proven record of growth. They have invested millions in Pipsico and already partner with CVC on OA events and training programs.
This is a pivotal moment for Scouting in Hampton Roads. It should not be rushed or taken lightly. This decision will shape our movement for decades, and it deserves careful consideration of all options – including a stronger consolidation with Tidewater Council.
Important Notice:
The CVC Executive Committee (Council Officers) will meet this Thursday, November 20, and will vote on whether to consider Tidewater Council’s proposal as an option. This is not a vote to approve a consolidation, but it may determine if TWC remains part of the discussion moving forward.
If the Executive Committee decides not to consider the benefits of partnering with TWC, the process will continue toward a merger with HOVC without delay. Then, according to the anticipated timeline on the HOVC-CVC announcement, the full CVC Executive Board is expected to vote on that merger in late December.
This is a critical moment for volunteers to make their voices heard and ensure all options – including independence or consolidation with Tidewater Council – are fully considered before any irreversible decision is made.
A Note to CVC Board Members:
We understand these conversations can feel uncomfortable. Raising questions about direction and priorities is never easy, especially when significant effort has gone into exploring options. Our intent is not to criticize, but to ensure every possibility—including remaining independent or a partnership that reflects Hampton Roads’ unique culture—is fully considered before any irreversible decision is made. Each council is an independent organization. You can and should make your own decision based on what is best for the Scouts and Scouters you serve—not what CST leadership or National suggests is “inevitable.” This decision is yours alone, and what you decide will shape the future of Scouting for thousands of youth and volunteers across Hampton Roads.
We can all help by:
- Forwarding this email and linked documents folder.
- Contacting your Council President, council board members, and CST 15 leadership today, telling them to:
- Keep CVCs independence on the table.
- If consolidation is necessary, consider and choose TWC, not HOVC.
Our Scouts deserve the strongest program and leadership, not a merger that makes Scouting harder for families.
As we come across more documents we will upload them here.
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.