SAN ANTONIO – Girls will be joining the ranks of the Boy Scouts starting in 2018, drawing criticism and excitement from communities across the country.

In October, a landmark decision was reached to allow girls in the formerly boys-only organization. The Alamo-area Boy Scouts are among the first round of cities opening their doors to girls.

One of the San Antonio organizers, Pastor Gene Horne, reminisced about his sister wanting to join the scouts when they were children, but wasn’t allowed simply because she wasn’t a boy. Horne said for the last 35 years in San Antonio girls have been forced to join the Girl Scouts program instead.

"For those who have been active in Scouting for many years this change may call for an adjustment in our thinking, however, for the youth in the program they will take in stride,” said Horne. “This change has been a long time coming but at last the whole family can be a complete Scouting family.”

Mary Buszuwski, the CEO of the Girl Scouts of Northeastern New York, and said the decision now means more competition, and feels the move isn’t beneficial to participants.

“The Boy Scouts are now another competitor and it’s disappointing," said Buszuwski. "What will the Boy Scouts be losing in becoming a co-ed program? I think that’s an important question for families, because boys also benefit from a single gender program specific to their needs."

Many people have said the issue lies with the differences of what is taught in both of the scout groups. Boy Scouts usually venture outdoors and foster wilderness skills, while Girl Scouts focus on crafts and civic engagement.

The Boy Scouts mission statement said they aim to build character, learn how to become responsible citizens and develop personal fitness skills. Girl Scouts said their goal is to build courage, confidence and character to make the world a better place.  

In 2018, girls will be able to join Cub Scouts, the Venturing program or volunteer. 

You can sign up or find your local scout chapter here.