There it is, in the middle of the word Scouts, the letter “u.” But the real “u” in Scouts is “you.” We are blessed that the vast majority of Scouting units (Cub Scout packs, Boy Scout troops, Venturing crews, Explorer posts and Varsity Scout teams) not only survive, but thrive for many years. Some are celebrating 50 years or more of community service and character building for young men – and women. You, the individual, truly are so important to Scouting. Some of you are Scout leaders, others are merit badge counselors and some have special or unique talents you have selflessly shared with the Scouts. Many of you support Scouting with that generous donation or participation in “Friends of Scouting,” the Boy Scouts of America family donation program, or by buying that can of popcorn from the kid next door or donating food during “Scouting For Food.”
Not forgotten are the parents and guardians of our Scouts who care enough about their children and our future to get them involved and keep them involved in Boy Scouting.
We are so pleased when we add new units, but a little bit of each of us in Scouting perishes when a unit disbands. Was it the kids? Usually not – we lost the parents. So here’s your challenge. Find a nearby Scouting unit. Step forward. Ask how you can help. We know you have a special talent or can spare a few hours a month. Scouting needs you. More importantly, the future of America needs you.
Come join us and help our units thrive!
New troop in Frederick
Frederick County has gained a new Boy Scout unit.
Troop 1274 is chartered to St. John the Evangelist parish in Frederick, part of the Catoctin Mountain District. A Court of Honor was held during which each of the boys advanced in rank. Troop 1274 is a bit small right now, but getting ready to take off.
Historic trail
Mike Parrish of the Baltimore Archdiocesan Catholic Committee on Scouting has put together an extraordinary guide, the Baltimore Catholic Historic Trail.
The trail is part hike, part history, part hunt and all fun. It begins in Canton, at St. Casimir, and ends at the Mother Seton House on Paca Street. In the five miles in between, there are more than 20 stops with national significance related to the founding of the church in the U.S.
Information can be found on the Web at www.archbalt.org/youngchurch/scouting/scout-programs.cfm
Karl Houser is a member of the Boy Scouts of America’s Baltimore Area Council membership Committee. Scout news can be sent to him at khouser@eblengineers.com.