The SURGE program was created to influence LDS-sponsored units to better support and participate in the Order of the Arrow program. SURGE was an acronym for, “Strengthening Units through Really Great Elections.”
The program was spearheaded by volunteer Bill Topkis, who lived in Utah, was a member of the National Committee, and was looking for a way to increase Order of the Arrow membership from a key demographic group of the Western Region.
The OA Western Region also supported the project, hosting materials for the program on its website, and encouraging SURGE training at local Order of the Arrow conclaves.
While the work of the SURGE Committee was considered a big success, other things were at play at the time that influenced the ultimate success of the program. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced in May 2018 that they would end its relationship with the Boy Scouts of America, with the date effective December 31, 2019.