Quality Unit

Since 1973, the BSA has established a set of guidelines to help its units provide a quality program to its youth. While the program names (and the requirements) have changed over the years, the goal has remained the same. Units completing the requirements for a quality program were permitted to wear a special patch commemorating their achievement. Only one patch is permitted to be worn at a time.

These programs were known as the National President's Boypower Unit Award (1974-77), the Honor Unit Award (1978-85), the Quality Unit Award (1986-2007), and the Centennial Quality Unit Award (2007-2010). Due to the overlap between programs in 2007, it was possible for units to qualify for both awards.

Beginning in 2003, units which had 100% of their youth subscribing to "Boys' Life" magazine (in addition to the other requirements) qualified for a special version of the award patch.

For historical information on these programs, check out Randy Worcester's Quality Unit history site by clicking HERE (this will open in a new window). For info on the Centennial Quality Unit Award program, check out the National BSA website.

(click images to see larger view -- images are not to scale)

NATIONAL PRESIDENT'S BOYPOWER AWARD (1974-1977)

(Note: This was a progressive program, so these were not tied to a specific year, but were earned in sequence)