We are excited to announce a unique volunteer opportunity for older Scouts, their families, and adult volunteers across the Northern Lights Council for the summer of 2026! As part of the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, our council is partnering with the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library to support the grand opening of the Presidential Library in Medora on July 4, 2026.
The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library will be a new national landmark dedicated to preserving the legacy of President Theodore Roosevelt, highlighting his conservation leadership, public service, and the American spirit. The opening is expected to draw thousands of visitors from across the country and will be a major event in North Dakota during the America 250 celebrations.
While many operational details are still being finalized among partner agencies and organizations, we can share that Scouts (ages 12+) and adults will be invited to assist with event logistics, including parking, transportation, and general operations. Current planning calls for participants to arrive in Medora on Tuesday, June 30, with orientation on Wednesday, July 1, and volunteer support running Thursday, July 2 through Sunday, July 5. Grand opening events bringing thousands of benefactors from all over the country are anticipated Wednesday through Friday, with the grand opening on Saturday, July 4 to the general public. If you are not interested in volunteer opportunities but the public grand opening, more information may be found at trlibrary.com/grand-opening.
In accordance with Safeguarding Youth policies, youth participants must attend with appropriate adult supervision. Participants should tentatively plan to camp in or near Medora for the duration of the event. Orientation and training will be provided, and schedules will include both volunteer shifts and personal time to explore Medora and the North Dakota badlands. Meal service will be provided in some capacity, and there will likely be a participation fee to help cover food, supplies, and event materials.
Scouts are asked to bring their field uniforms for volunteer shifts. Activity uniforms are also recommended for general wear. We plan to provide event apparel, and all participating Scouts will have the opportunity to earn service hours and receive a commemorative patch.
This opportunity is not intended to replace your unit’s attendance at summer camp. Because space will be limited and demand may exceed capacity, participation will be first come, first served once formal registration opens. We plan to hold an official registration for the event, but the exact timeframe has not yet been determined.
To help us gauge interest, please complete the interest form for your troop by indicating the estimated number of youth and adults who may wish to participate. Completing the form is non-binding and serves only to measure interest. You may include siblings in your estimate; however, please note that volunteer opportunities are reserved for those over 12 years of age.
For questions, please contact Ryan Hansen at ryan.hansen@scouting.org. This form will close on March 31, 2026.
