SAN ANTONIO — In what the organization is deeming a "historic change," Boy Scouts of America will admit girls into the Cub Scouts beginning next year.

They also plan to start a new program for older girls using the same curriculum as the Boy Scouts. Under the plan, Cub Scout dens, the smallest unit, would enroll either all boys or all girls. The larger Cub Scout packs will be able to welcome both genders.

The Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas, which serves San Antonio, says the change doesn't change its mission.

"Ultimately, boys and girls learn differently. They have different needs and we know that through our decades of experience, we are the best organization for girls to learn about leadership," said Stephanie Finleon Cortez of Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas.

The program for older girls is expected to start in 2019. In it, they will be able to obtain the coveted rank of Eagle Scout.

In a statement from the Boy Scouts of America, Alamo Area Council they said they are backing the vote:

The Alamo Area Council will continue following the policies and procedures as a unified Boy Scouts of America with a unified focus on all youth.  And, we welcome the new chapter in our history with BSA’s unanimous vote in giving families the choice for their sons and daughters to take advantage of Scouting, from Cub Scouts all the way to the Eagle rank.