Eagle Scout Recommendation Letter Template
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Eagle Scout Recommendation Letter Template: A Guide
Writing a recommendation letter for an aspiring Eagle Scout is a significant responsibility. It’s your opportunity to vouch for the candidate’s character, leadership, and commitment to Scouting ideals. While no single template perfectly suits every situation, a well-structured letter, adapted to the individual Scout, can significantly strengthen their application. Here’s a breakdown of a template and key elements to consider:
Structure of a Strong Recommendation Letter
- Introduction (Paragraph 1):
- Clearly state your support for the candidate’s Eagle Scout rank advancement. For example: “It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Scout’s Full Name] for the rank of Eagle Scout.”
- Establish your relationship to the candidate. How long have you known them, and in what capacity (e.g., Scoutmaster, teacher, community leader, employer)? This provides context for your assessment.
- Briefly mention why you believe they are deserving of the Eagle Scout rank. Highlight one or two key qualities upfront.
- Body Paragraphs (2-3 Paragraphs):
- Paragraph 2: Character and Personal Qualities: Focus on traits like honesty, integrity, responsibility, respect, and perseverance. Provide specific anecdotes or examples that demonstrate these qualities. Avoid generic statements. For example, instead of saying “He is very responsible,” say “I have witnessed [Scout’s Name] consistently taking initiative and ensuring tasks are completed thoroughly and on time, as demonstrated when he volunteered to manage the equipment for our troop’s camping trips.”
- Paragraph 3: Leadership and Service: Elaborate on the candidate’s leadership experience, both within and outside of Scouting. Describe their involvement in leading projects, teams, or initiatives. Highlight their commitment to service, mentioning specific service projects they participated in and the impact they made. Quantify their accomplishments whenever possible (e.g., “He led a team of 10 Scouts in building a new playground for the local elementary school, benefiting over 200 children.”) Emphasize the Scout’s ability to motivate others, delegate tasks, and solve problems.
- Optional Paragraph: Unique Contributions: If the Scout has made significant contributions in a specific area (e.g., environmental conservation, community outreach), dedicate a paragraph to highlighting these achievements. This demonstrates their passion and dedication beyond the standard requirements.
- Conclusion (Paragraph 4):
- Reiterate your strong support for the candidate. Summarize the key qualities that make them a deserving candidate for Eagle Scout.
- Offer a final, impactful statement about their potential. For example: “I am confident that [Scout’s Name] will continue to make a positive impact on the world, and I highly recommend him for the rank of Eagle Scout.”
- Provide your contact information (phone number and/or email address) should the Eagle Scout Board of Review have any questions.
Key Considerations
- Be Specific: Generalities weaken your letter. Concrete examples are crucial for showcasing the Scout’s character and achievements.
- Be Honest and Authentic: Write from the heart and reflect your genuine assessment of the candidate.
- Proofread Carefully: Ensure your letter is free of grammatical errors and typos. A polished letter reflects well on both you and the candidate.
- Tailor the Letter: Adapt the template to reflect the individual Scout’s unique strengths and experiences. Don’t simply fill in the blanks.
- Consider BSA Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with the BSA’s requirements for Eagle Scout rank advancement.
By following this template and incorporating these considerations, you can craft a compelling recommendation letter that effectively supports the Scout’s journey to Eagle Scout rank.
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