The OA Cake

(Specific for members of Mantis Chapter)

How It works

Each level represents a different part of your OA Path Each layer represents a different stage of your OA journey.

The bottom layers focus on local involvement, while the top layers represent broader leadership and responsibilities.
As you progress, you take on more roles and impact more members of the OA community.

You start from the bottom and work your way up.

Everyone begins their journey in their Chapter and Lodge, participating in events, service projects, and unit elections.
Over time, you may take on leadership roles at the Section, Region, or even National level as you grow in experience.

Not everyone’s OA Cake looks the same—and that’s okay!

Some members focus on service and ceremonies, while others get involved in leadership and training.
Your path is unique, and no single route is better than another—what matters most is your dedication to the OA’s mission of Brotherhood, Cheerfulness, and Service.

Explanation – Moving to the Next Layer

In this example, this person has two layers in their OA Cake and is now working on their third. They have been actively involved in their Chapter and Lodge, participating in events, service projects, and leadership roles. Through their dedication, they have built strong connections, developed leadership skills, and made a lasting impact at the Chapter and Lodge levels.

Now, they are taking the next step in their OA journey by becoming involved at the Section level. This could include:

Attending Section Conclave and connecting with members from other lodges.
Running for Section Leadership, such as Section Chief, Vice Chief, or Secretary.
Assisting with Section-wide events, training programs, and leadership development initiatives.

Progressing to the Section level is a significant milestone, demonstrating growth, commitment, and a willingness to serve the OA beyond the lodge. This step allows them to make a broader impact and take on greater leadership opportunities within the Order of the Arrow.

Organization & Structure

On the national OA website, there is a chart (shown on the left) that closely resembles the OA Cake. We encourage you to review both and explore the connections between them. While the OA Cake shares similarities with the national chart, its design is specifically focused on guiding youth members through their path to future success in the Order of the Arrow.

⬇️Below are detailed explanations of each layer, similar to the chart found on the national OA website⬇️

REMEMBER!

Remember, everyone's journey is unique, and we all have different visions for our end goals. Just like cakes, no two paths will look the same, and that's perfectly okay!

⬇️Below are the 11 possible OA Cake layers—we encourage you to explore them and see where you fit in your OA journey⬇️

0 - Working On 1

1 - Working On 2

2 - Working On 3

3 - Working On 4

4 - Working On 5

The OA Cake’s Importance

What does this truly signify?

The OA Cake is more than just a visual—it represents the unique journey of each member in the Order of the Arrow. Just like no two cakes are identical, each Arrowman’s experience in the OA is different, shaped by their level of involvement, leadership, and commitment to service.

Building Your Foundation

Everyone begins at the base layer, typically at the Chapter or Lodge level. This foundation represents the start of an OA member’s journey, where they participate in events, service projects, and unit elections. Without this base, the cake cannot grow—just as leadership and service in the OA stem from early participation.

Choosing Your Path

As members engage more deeply, they may choose to add more layers, taking on leadership roles or serving at higher levels within the OA. Some members aspire to reach the top, stepping into Section, Region, or even National leadership, while others prefer to stay involved locally at the Chapter or Lodge level. Both paths are equally valuable—the OA is about personal growth and meaningful contributions, not just climbing the ranks.

The Meaning Behind the Layers

Each layer represents a different level of involvement, with the larger layers at the bottom symbolizing broad opportunities for connection and development within the OA community. As you move up, the layers become smaller, reflecting more specialized roles, deeper connections, and increased responsibilities.

The Bigger Picture

The OA Cake reminds us that success in the OA is not measured by how high you go, but by how much you give back and grow along the way. Whether you have one layer or all five, your journey is your own, and every contribution—big or small—helps strengthen the Brotherhood of Cheerful Service.

So, where do you stand in your OA Cake, and where do you want to go next?

Why is it important to say?

Reflecting on your journey in the Order of the Arrow is essential to understand your growth and set new goals. The OA Cake acts as a roadmap, helping you visualize your involvement and plan your next steps. Evaluating your current layers allows you to embrace challenges and find fresh ways to serve.

Understanding Your Current Layers

Look at your OA Cake and ask yourself: Are you satisfied with where you are? Have you taken advantage of the opportunities within your Chapter, Lodge, or Section? Reflection ensures your OA experience aligns with your personal goals, whether that’s deepening involvement or appreciating your journey so far.

The Opportunity for Growth

If your OA journey has room for growth, consider adding more layers by getting more involved in your Chapter or Lodge, attending a Section or National event to broaden your experience, or taking on leadership roles to make a greater impact. Adding layers goes beyond climbing ranks—it’s about personal development, leadership, and service in the OA.

Embracing New Opportunities

The OA is built on brotherhood, cheerful service, and leadership, with each layer representing a new way to live these values. Whether you want to serve on a committee, mentor scouts, or lead, every step forward strengthens your connection to the OA and your growth as a leader.

Your Journey Is Yours to Shape

There’s no single path—some members are fulfilled by one or two layers, while others strive for the top. The key is to ensure your OA experience is meaningful and fulfilling. By reflecting on your OA Cake, you can take intentional steps toward new experiences, deeper connections, and greater service in the Brotherhood of Cheerful Service.

So, what will your OA Cake look like?

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