National Scout Jamboree -

Invest in the Future of Diving

Volunteer at the 2026 National Scout Jamboree

Article by Jeffrey Bozanic

If we want the dive industry to thrive, we must do more than teach—we must inspire. And the best place to start is with young people.

At a time when youth are pulled in every direction by distractions, demands, and digital overload, scuba diving offers something rare: a pathway to confidence, curiosity, and connection with the natural world. But few young people ever get the chance to try it—unless someone makes the effort to show them how.

In July 2026, SDI/TDI divers will have that opportunity.

The National Scout Jamboree, hosted by Scouting America, is one of the largest youth gatherings in the country. Held every four years at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia, the Jamboree brings together tens of thousands of teens and volunteers for ten days of adventure, fellowship, and personal growth. Among the most popular activities is an introductory scuba experience—and that program is actively seeking volunteers.

The 2026 Jamboree scuba program is expected to introduce more than 10,000 youth to diving through a fast-paced, pool-based activity that emphasizes safety, excitement, and discovery. Many participants have never handled dive gear before. With the guidance of trained staff, they gain firsthand exposure to the underwater world, often sparking a desire to pursue certification or earn Scouting’s Scuba Diving merit badge.

The program requires a diverse team of dedicated volunteers:

SDI/TDI instructors, assistant instructors, and divemasters
Certified divers supporting logistics, gear management, and operations
Adults passionate about mentoring youth and promoting outdoor education

Volunteers must be registered with Scouting America and pay a staff registration fee. Those who are not currently involved in Scouting can receive guidance on completing the registration process. Positions are available for the full 10-day Jamboree or for partial terms. Reduced fees are available for younger volunteers (ages 16–29). Meals are provided for all staff members.

Serving on the scuba team offers volunteers the opportunity to combine their diving expertise with meaningful service—supporting personal growth, inspiring curiosity, and strengthening the future of diving. The work is challenging, rewarding, and deeply impactful for both the youth and the staff who guide them.

Additional details and registration information are available at jamboree.scouting.org/staff. For questions, contact:
Mike Meenehan
2026 National Scout Jamboree Scuba Team Leader
📧 mmmeenehan@gmail.com

Helping others experience scuba for the first time is more than a good deed—it’s an investment in the dive industry to which we all belong. It’s also a gift to ourselves. In serving others, we rediscover what drew us to diving in the first place: wonder, connection, and the joy of sharing something extraordinary.