The Order of the Arrow representative serves as a communication link between the
troop and the local Order of the Arrow lodge. By enhancing the image of the Order as a
service arm to the troop, he promotes the Order, encourages Scouts to take part in all
sorts of camping opportunities, and helps pave the way for older Scouts to become
involved in high-adventure programs. The OA troop representative assists with
leadership skills training. He reports to the assistant senior patrol leader.
Specific Responsibilities
- Attends troop and chapter or lodge meetings regularly as a youth representative of the troop and Order.
- Serves as a two-way communication link between the troop and the lodge or chapter.
- Arranges with the lodge or chapter election team to conduct an annual Order of the Arrow election for the troop at a time approved by the Patrol Leaders Council.
- Arranges with the lodge or chapter for at least one camp promotion visit to the unit annually.
- Makes at least one high adventure presentation to the troop, to include the OA programs, annually.
- As requested by the SPL, participates in Troop Courts of Honor by recognizing: high adventure participation of troop members, induction of new OA members, changes in OA honors of troop members, leadership of troop members, and other appropriate activities.
- Coordinates the Ordeal Induction process for newly elected candidates by: ensuring they know the time and location of the Ordeal, providing information of what to bring to the Ordeal, assisting (as needed) in arranging transportation to the Ordeal, and offering assistance (as needed) to the lodge in the Ordeal process.
- Assists current Ordeal members in the troop in sealing their membership by becoming Brotherhood members by: ensuring they know the time and location of Brotherhood opportunities, assisting (as needed) in arranging transportation to the Brotherhood opportunities, and offering assistance to the lodge (as needed) in the Brotherhood process. He may also, at the discretion of the PLC, offer periodic training and discussions of OA principles, symbolism, and the Legend as needed by and appropriate for the troop members of the Order.
- Leads at least one troop service project for the community or charter partner during the year. May also serve, at the discretion of the PLC, as the troop’s service chairman.
- Assists the troop (as appropriate) as a trainer of leadership and outdoor skills.
- In all cases, advocates environmental stewardship and Leave No Trace camping.
- Sets a good example by: wearing the Scout uniform correctly, showing Scout spirit, and living by the Scout Oath, the Scout law and the OA Obligation.