The Badge Archive

Plan and Do Outdoor Service

Fulfills Step 3 of GSUSA Mind, Body, Me badge requirements.

Info Needed: Scouts explore how outdoor activities support mental and physical wellness by actively engaging with nature through movement or meditation.

Items Needed:

  • Outdoor service project supplies (varies by project).
  • Comfortable clothes and shoes for movement.
  • (Optional) Sunscreen, water, gloves, or tools based on the project.

Instructions (Estimated Total Time: 20–30 min):

  1. Vote for the Outdoor Service Project (Estimated Time: 15–20 min)
    • Scouts vote to participate in an outdoor service project. See a list of simple projects below.
  2. Perform the Outdoor Service Project (Estimated Time: 30–120 min – varies by project)
    • Each scout contributes actively, using their body to complete helpful tasks outdoors.
  3. Reflect on Physical and Mental Wellness (Estimated Time: 5–10 min)
    • Scouts consider how their body felt during and after the activity (energized, tired, proud, challenged, etc.).
    • They think about how it felt to use movement in service of others.
    • (Optional) Scouts write one sentence about what they learned or appreciated.

Simple Outdoor Service Projects

  1. Neighborhood or Park Trash Cleanup
    • Provide gloves and trash bags.
    • Focus on safe, public spaces like trails, playgrounds, or school grounds.
  2. Weed and Mulch Community Beds
    • Coordinate with local parks or schools.
    • Scouts can remove weeds and spread mulch or bark chips to help plants thrive.
  3. Paint Kindness Rocks and Place Them Outdoors
    • Use paint pens on small river rocks.
    • Leave in garden beds, pathways, or local green spaces with positive messages.
  4. Sweep Sidewalks and Clear Debris
    • Great around community centers or schools.
    • Use brooms, dustpans, and compostable bags if available.
  5. Create Birdseed Ornaments for Trees
    • Make easy feeders from peanut butter, birdseed, and natural twine.
    • Hang in safe, visible spots in parks or backyards.
  6. Organize a Mini Litter Scavenger Hunt
    • Add fun by awarding points for types of trash found.
    • Keep the area small and safe; offer prizes or group shoutouts.
  7. Distribute Water Bottles or Snacks at a Local Outdoor Event
    • Partner with a run/walk, school activity, or city fest.
    • Scouts can help set up, distribute, and clean up.
  8. Refresh Painted School Benches or Picnic Tables
    • Sand, wipe down, and apply fresh outdoor paint.
    • Great for spaces where scouts meet regularly.
  9. Build or Repair a Simple Trail Marker or Garden Border
    • Use sticks, rocks, or pre-cut wood donated locally.
    • Scouts can place, arrange, and photograph their handiwork.
  10. Plant Seeds in Sidewalk Tree Beds or Community Gardens
    • Choose native or drought-resistant plants.
    • Partner with a garden club or city horticulture team.
Tia Kennard