Successful council finances are a key element in delivering the promise of Scouting to every available youth member.  A strong financial foundation should be the goal of every council because it allows staff and volunteers to focus on mission-critical priorities like recruiting and retention of new members and leaders, consistent delivery of quality program, keeping staff at full strength and volunteer relationships. 

The National Council’s 2006-2010 Strategic Plan has identified fiscally sound councils as one of its five guiding principles.  In 2007, the BSA plans to focus the resources of the national organization on achieving this goal to better position councils to achieve the other pillars of the plan.  “Every council must continuously position itself to raise sufficient funds to fulfill its mission, manage those funds effectively and efficiently. And ensure the council has incorporated a culture of good governance.”