Scouting America: Empowering our youth
My Story: Over 20 Years in Scouting
Over two decades ago, after moving to a new community, I was looking for a fun, welcoming activity for my son. We attended a local Cub Scout meeting where my son—the only kindergartener in attendance—was warmly embraced and paired with older scouts. That welcoming environment ignited a lifelong passion.
Starting as a Den Leader, I later became Cubmaster, organizing camping trips and overnights at zoos and historic WWII ships. As my son grew into Scouts BSA, I continued as Assistant Scoutmaster, taking youth on high-adventure outings like snow camping and backpacking. Through advanced leadership programs like Wood Badge and district-level volunteering, I transitioned to training other adults, helping both youth and adult leaders learn, grow, and thrive.
Both my son and my daughter have become Eagle Scouts and have now aged out of the program. I am still volunteering as an Assistant Scoutmaster, Wood Badge Council Coordinator, and teach Dutch Oven cooking and leadership classes.
Why Support Scouting?
Even now that my children have aged out, I remain an active volunteer. People often ask me why I stay involved. Here is why this program is so meaningful:
- Empowering Youth Growth: Watch young adults transform from being hesitant to speak into confident leaders capable of addressing a room of 50+ people.
- Inclusive for All Youth: Scouting supports youth aged 5 to 21 (both boys and girls), instilling essential life skills, character, and leadership.
- A Magnetic Community: Scouting acts like a "light to a moth," consistently attracting compassionate, dedicated adults and families.
- Flexible Ways to Give Back: Whether you can volunteer a little time or take on a larger role, every contribution directly benefits our community.