The Peoria-based WD Boyce Council will keep its relationship with the Boy Scouts of America. The council announced it's moving forward with the national Scouts’ new policy of admitting members regardless of sexual orientation.
The WD Boyce Council surveyed its regional sponsors of the program, and found that they mostly approved of the change. George Clay is the CEO of the local council. He says the new policy allows all kids the opportunity to participate in the Scouts:
"We know that Scouting is a life changing program. While remaining true to the virtues of Scouting, we believe we can serve all young people. While people have different opinions on the policy, we all can agree that Scouting does make a difference in a youth's life. We hope that we can all work together moving forward to impact the life of young people."
Clay says the local council is asking sponsors to take time to review the policy change before choosing whether to remain with the program. The change takes effect January 1st, allowing the Boy Scouts of America and their chapters time to transition. Clay says the national Boy Scouts will not be considering the additional policy proposal that considers allowing adult leaders regardless of sexual orientation.