1. Effective Unit Elections:
Learning the Ropes
Order of the Arrow • Lodge Leadership Development •
Effective Unit Elections: Learning the Ropes

2. Why are successful unit elections important?
To recognize those campers who best exemplify the Scout Oath and Law.
Provide new candidates for membership.
Convey the Order’s principles and ideals.
Order of the Arrow • Lodge Leadership Development •
Effective Unit Elections: Learning the Ropes

3. Youth Membership Eligibility
Scoutmaster/Coach approval.
Registered member of a troop/team.
Hold the First Class rank.
15 days and nights of Scout camping within two-years of the election,
Including one 6 day, 5 night long term Scout camping experience.
Order of the Arrow • Lodge Leadership Development •
Effective Unit Elections: Learning the Ropes

4. Adult Membership Eligibility
Registered member of the BSA.
Camping requirements for youth are fulfilled.
Able to perform the functions to help the Order fulfill its purpose.
Provide a positive role model for youth OA members.
Order of the Arrow • Lodge Leadership Development •
Effective Unit Elections: Learning the Ropes

5. Unit Election Resources
Unit Election Form
Lodge Unit Election Manual/Resource Booklet
Lodge Unit Election Ceremony
Lodge Call Out Ceremony
Lodge Officers and Advisers Guidebook
Order of the Arrow • Lodge Leadership Development •
Effective Unit Elections: Learning the Ropes

6. Procedures: Before Election
Know: SM/Coach info, meeting location, election date and time.
Confirm with Scoutmaster/Coach.
Prepare proper election materials.
Ensure election team members are properly trained.
Order of the Arrow • Lodge Leadership Development •
Effective Unit Elections: Learning the Ropes

7. Procedures: During Election
Wear full Scout uniforms with OA sash.
Meet with Scoutmaster/Coach.
Ensure 50% of active youth are present.
Review eligibility requirements.
Obtain Scoutmaster/Coach approval for eligible youth.
Conduct unit election.
Order of the Arrow • Lodge Leadership Development •
Effective Unit Elections: Learning the Ropes

8. Procedures: After Election
Complete and sign the election form.
If at least one youth is elected, present Scoutmaster/Coach with Adult Nomination form.
Conduct the call out ceremony used by your lodge/chapter.
After the call out, hold a private meeting with them.
Order of the Arrow • Lodge Leadership Development •
Effective Unit Elections: Learning the Ropes

9. Mock Unit Election We need four volunteers:
Three to serve on Unit Election team
One to serve as Scoutmaster
The election team will then leave the room to prepare for the election.
Upon their return, we will hold a mock election.
Order of the Arrow • Lodge Leadership Development •
Effective Unit Elections: Learning the Ropes

10. In Conclusion, Remember:
Unit Election is one of the most important activities in the OA.
Work together with your team.
Fully prepare for every election.
Make a great impression with the Scoutmaster/Coach.
Order of the Arrow • Lodge Leadership Development •
Effective Unit Elections: Learning the Ropes