COSCA Youth

Safeguarding the Future of the Scottish American Diaspora

The future of the Scottish American community rests in its next generation.

At COSCA, we recognize that young people are not simply the future of our clan societies—they are the present voice of a living, evolving heritage. Ensuring their engagement, participation, and leadership is essential to sustaining Scottish identity, culture, and community across the United States.

Why Youth Engagement Matters

Scottish heritage in America has long been preserved through clan societies, cultural events, and shared traditions. Today, however, changing generational interests, digital engagement, and evolving identities present both challenges and opportunities.

To remain relevant, we must actively support and include younger generations—ensuring they see Scottish heritage not as something inherited, but as something they can shape, experience, and carry forward.

COSCA’s Commitment

COSCA is committed to:

  • Encouraging youth participation across clan societies and heritage organizations

  • Creating opportunities for leadership, education, and cultural engagement

  • Supporting initiatives that reflect the interests and perspectives of younger generations

  • Strengthening connections between Scotland and the Scottish American diaspora

  • Listening to the Next Generation

Understanding how young people connect with their heritage is key.

Through initiatives such as youth surveys at Highland Games and community events, COSCA is actively working to better understand:

  • How young people define Scottish identity

  • What forms of engagement are most meaningful to them

  • How organizations can evolve to meet their expectations

This insight helps shape a more inclusive and sustainable future for the community.

Building a Sustainable Future

Safeguarding the Scottish American diaspora is not simply about preserving tradition—it is about ensuring continuity through relevance.

By investing in youth engagement today, COSCA and its member organizations are:

  • Strengthening long-term membership and participation

  • Encouraging innovation within heritage organizations

  • Creating meaningful pathways for future leaders

  • Ensuring Scottish culture remains vibrant in a modern world

Get Involved

Whether through local clan societies, cultural events, genealogy, or digital engagement, there are many ways for young people to connect with their heritage.

COSCA invites the next generation to take part, get involved, and help shape the future of the Scottish American community.