Trail Life USA (TLUSA) and American Heritage Girls (AHG), the Christian based alternatives to Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, entered into an historic agreement with a Memorandum of Ministry Alliance on June 25th.

Under the terms of the alliance, which has been approved by both board of directors, each organization has agreed to support the other in their shared missions for spiritual and character development of youth through Christ-centered programming.

The alliance will further contribute to the phenomenal growth of both organizations by allowing Troops to operate side by side with a shared Charter Organization, typically a church. The groups have committed to jointly pursue methods using their unique and separate programs for the mutual benefit of positive character development in our nation’s youth.

The signing took place at AHG’s 20th Anniversary National Convention on the campus of Anderson University in Anderson, Indiana. The agreement, the highest form of union for each of the organizations, was signed by TLUSA CEO Mark Hancock and AHG Executive Director Patti Garibay. “AHG is thrilled to work with Trail Life USA in bringing Christ centered, goal oriented programming to families across the nation. Maintaining our unique identities while lever- aging the synergy between the two ministries  promises  to be an  exciting  journey,”  states Patti Garibay.

“We’re excited about this agreement and what it  will mean to churches and families that want to see Christ-centered outdoor adventure, character and leadership skills influence this next generation of young people,” said Hancock. “It’s a natural and spiritual connection that will enhance each of our missions. We couldn’t be happier.”

Trail Life USA’s mission is to guide generations of courageous young men to honor God, lead with integrity, serve others, and experience outdoor adventure. While it is open to boys (K-25 years) of any faith or no faith at all, its leadership is restricted to Christians. TLUSA has grown to nearly 25,000 members in its first 18 months.

American Heritage Girls mission is to build women of integrity through service to God, family, community and country. Girls ages 5-18 participate in badge programs, service projects, leadership opportunities and outdoor experiences. AHG has over 40,000 members.

For more information regarding TLUSA and AHG Inc., please visit www.TrailLifeUSA.com or www.ahgonline.org.