Corpus Christi (KIII News) — A century-old partnership is coming to an end; the Boy Scouts of America and Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints announced they would soon go their separate ways.
In a recent release from both parties, the Mormon Church stated because of their monumental growth, they have decided to start their own program that better suits their religion and growth.
Martin Sepulveda, the Scout Executive of South Texas Council, explained what the end of the partnership means.
"They started looking at several years ago, a program that they could create and develop that was universal for all of their members so they can have that ability to communicate and control and that communication and what the outcomes were like," Sepulveda said.
According to their website, LDS claimed that Scouting was used as a young male development program. This news came after the Boy Scouts announced their decision to allow girls into their most popular program known as Boy Scouts. Sepulveda said it was an amicable decision.
"They're not abandoning us and saying you guys no longer fit our values, just they're looking for something that fits their church," Sepulveda said.
Sepulveda added many LDS boys might choose to stay in their troops while growing up in the church. This change is one of many that has several people up in arms, but Martin decided to embrace it.
"There's been girls in our exploring and venturing programs for the past forty years," Sepulveda said.
Girls have been allowed in the Scouting program since the late 1900's. They were and still are allowed in Cub Scouts an Venturing Scouts. The name change will only apply to the traditional program where boys aim to become Eagle Scouts. They will now be known as Scouts BSA.
Now, girls will have the same opportunity.
"Nothing's changing with the lessons; the experience is gonna be the same, they're gonna get the same, same scouting values, same scouting experience, same scouting curriculum just like the boys," Sepulveda said.
The Scout Executive noted many people think the troops will be co-ed, but that is not the case.
Sepulveda stated young girls would have to start their own troops.
"This just makes it really official that girls can actually sign up, get a uniform and earn badges like their brothers," Sepulveda said.
According to Sepulveda, the inclusion stems from the Scouts' family values. He's recognized the number of scouts that have a sister who eventually gets involved with their brother's troop.
"Families have been coming to Cub Scout campouts, families are encouraged to come to meetings, siblings, daughters are encouraged to go camping," Sepulveda said.
As an Eagle Scout, Martin encouraged his children to get involved with the Scouts. His 19-year-old daughter, Mariclare said joining was one of her best decisions.
"It's been one of the most positive impacts in my life probably, so many fun things, I've met some of my best friends through Scouting," she said.
Even though people have expressed their opposition to the change, Sepulveda and his daughter have chosen to embrace the new doors opening for the organization.
"That's what it's all about; it's about giving those families the opportunity to have it for both kids."
Stay connected with 3News for the latest news, sports, and weather. Download the KIII-TV 3News app now.
Have an idea for a story? Send news tips to news@kiiitv.com, and visit us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!