The Palmetto Council is one of over 300 autonomous councils across the United States that has been chartered by the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) to assist local organizations in using the Scouting program as a part of their own youth work. These organizations, which have goals compatible with those of the BSA, receive charters from the Boy Scouts of America to use the Scouting program. Chartered organizations may be religious, educational, civic, fraternal, business, or labor organizations; governmental bodies; professional associations; or citizen's groups.
The council uses both a professional staff and a large body of volunteers to provide its service. The services provided include registration of members and leaders, advancement programs, communications, commissioner service, training of unit leaders, program enrichment activities, camping facilities, program supplies, planning materials, monthly roundtables, insurance, and much more.
As part of its charter agreement with the BSA, the Palmetto Council has agreed to abide by the Bylaws and Rules and Regulations of the BSA. Local governance is provided by an Executive Board of citizens representing all the areas of territory served by the council.
The purpose of the Boy Scouts of America - incorporated on February 8, 1910, and chartered by congress in 1916 - is to provide an educational program for boys and young adults to build character, to train in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and to develop personal fitness.