“EK” Electronic Knapsack – August 15, 2025

Table of Contents

Upcoming Events

Popcorn Order #2 - Due by August 20

Second Popcorn Order Due

August 20

The second unit popcorn order is due by Wednesday, August 20.

Unit Popcorn Kernels must place the order through the unit Scout Boss account. Use order type “Show & Sell 2” and place the order in full cases. As in previous years, Chocolate Lovers, Cheese Lovers, Classic Trio, and Double Butter come as one item per case. All others come with eight items per case.

For additional instructions, see the Scout Boss Guide in the Popcorn Guide.

For assistance, please contact the District Popcorn Kernel.

Range and Target Activity Trainings

September - November

Interested in become a certified firearms or archery instructor? Tidewater Council’s Shooting Sports Committee can help Scout leaders fulfill these ambitions and become qualified to lead range and target activity programs for their units.

In 2025, Tidewater Council is offering training for multiple types of firearms. Not only that, but the council also offered its first USA Archery Level 1 Instructor course. Tidewater Council’s Shooting Sports Committee offers leaders opportunities to obtain instructor credentials at a fraction of the cost available elsewhere.

Class sizes are limited – sign up today!

Course Schedule
  • NRA Pistol Instructor Course: September 6 – WAITLIST ONLY
  • NRA Range Safety Officer Course: September 27
  • NRA Basic Rifle Course: October 4 – WAITLIST ONLY
  • NRA Rifle Instructor Course: November 1

Visit the Black Pug registration page for course details, pricing, and more information. For questions, please contact the Shooting Sports Committtee at [email protected].

America's Navy 250. 2025 NAS Ocean Air Show logo

NAS Oceana Air-O-Ree

September 19-21

Packs, troops, crews, ships, and posts are invited to make lifelong memories at a special camping event at Naval Air Station Oceana!

Celebrate 250 Years of America’s Navy and see the Blue Angels and other top-tier naval aviators show what they can do in the fastest airplanes in the world

Camp on base at NAS Oceana and attend a Q&A for Scouts with some of the naval aviators! 

Logo for Three Rivers Webelosree Adventures 2025

Three Rivers Webelosree

September 26-28

Webelosree is back! Three Rivers District is excited to welcome Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts to a weekend campout designed just for them!

The Three Rivers Webelosree will offer several Adventures and electives that Webelos and Arrow of Light Scouts will be able to complete.

Join in the fun and fellowship to bring this event back stronger than ever!

High Adventure Canoeing Training

September 26-28
Camp Moonyah & Camp Baker
Eight spots remaining!

Does your unit have a dynamic outdoor program that includes water sports activities? Have you taken a canoe trip with youth? Have you considered doing a weekend canoeing campout? How about a longer trip – a weeklong trip?

High Adventure programs bring out the best in youth. The first day is a bit of a struggle, but soon, their skill level improves, and they take up the challenge to complete the trip. High Adventure activities are a great way to retain older youth in a Scouting unit and deliver the promise of Scouting.

To undertake such a journey, every participant must learn the basic skills required. On September 26-28, Tidewater Council will provide training for participants to learn and understand the basic skills for canoeing trips.

Course Curriculum
  • Planning the trip
  • Working a budget
  • Making reservations
  • Keeping costs affordable
  • How to conduct work-up trips to ensure everyone is prepared to complete the trip
  • Two nights of camping
  • Two days of cooking
  • And much more
Itinerary

Friday, September 26: The training will begin at Camp Moonyah in the Deep Creek area of Chesapeake.

Saturday, September 27: Participants will travel by canoeing the scenic Intercoastal Waterway. The trip will include transiting the locks at Great Bridge, and will end at Camp Baker on Centerville Turnpike. Participants will camp for the night at Camp Baker.

Sunday, September 28: The course will conclude around noon on Sunday.

Cost and Materials

The cost for the course is $35.00 per person. This fee includes food, canoe rental, course materials, and the camping fee.

Participants will bring personal gear that they currently own. No special gear is required. A pre-meeting to discuss personal gear, how to waterproof, and fundamentals of canoeing with a crew will be held on August 19, 2025, at a location to be announced.

Participant Qualifications

This course is designed for adults and senior youth who want to become crew leaders.

Space is limited. High Adventure trips are held in small groups, normally no more than twelve. Several participants are currently registered, and there is room for a few more.

Contact

For further information, contact Jeffrey Irving at 757-646-5218.

CubCraft October 3-5, Pipsico Scout Reservation

CubCraft Cub Scout Family Camp

October 3-5

Gear up for CubCraft, where Cub Scouts build character one block at a time!

This pixel-packed adventure is loaded with fun!

  • Range and target activities
  • Sports and games
  • STEM activities
  • Exploring nature
  • Crafts galore
  • Campfire – bring a skit or a song to perform!
  • Cooking competition
Princess Anne District Fall 2025 Cuboree Patch, Fall STEM Academy, The Curious Cauldron

Princess Anne Fall Cuboree

October 10-12

Stir up some spooky fun at the 2025 Princess Anne Cuboree!

A bubbling brew of STEM, range and target activities, and Halloween thrills awaits – costumes, cauldrons, and adventure all weekend long!

Three Rivers District Scouts BSA Spook-O-Ree

October 24-26

Step right up—Carnival Madness is rolling into Izaak Walton!

This Scouts BSA weekend is packed with lots of spooky fun. Test your skills, enjoy the games, and soak up the eerie excitement of the season. Spots are limited, so register now for an unforgettable adventure!

Three Rivers District Cub Scout Spook-O-Ree 2025 Carnival Madness

Three Rivers District Cub Scout Spook-O-Ree

October 24-26

The Three Rivers District Cub-O-Ree will bring just the right amount of spookiness for a weekend of Cub Scout fun! Get ready for a spine-tingling time as the carnival comes to town, bringing fun and games for all.

Perfect for first-time campers and seasoned Scouts alike, this camp will celebrate the thrill of the season. Space is limited, so don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy a frightfully fun weekend!

Logo for Cub Scout Family Camp Fall 2025 Cub Scout Investigators, Pipsico Scout Reservation

Cub Scout Investigators Family Camp

November 7-9

Cub Scouts and their families are invited to participate in a variety of crime-solving and investigation activities at Pipsico Scout Reservation!

  • Climbing and bouldering
  • Range and target activities
  • Games and crafts
  • Scavenger hunt
  • Campfire – bring a skit or a song to perform!
  • Dessert bake-off competitions
  • Door prize drawing

Save the date – registration opens September 8!

Patch for Princess Anne District Fall Camporee 2025. Fall STEM Academy.

Princess Anne Fall Camporee

Fall STEM Academy
November 7-9

Get ready to explore, invent, and discover at the Princess Anne District Fall STEM Academy Merit Badge Weekend – where curiosity meets innovation!

This exciting event, held at Camp Pendleton in Virginia Beach, is designed to ignite Scouts’ passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on learning while earning merit badges. With guidance from expert mentors and merit badge counselors, Scouts will not only earn key STEM-related merit badges, but will also gain a deeper understanding of how STEM skills shape the world and the future.

Save the date – registration opens September 1 for Princess Anne troops and crews, and October 15 for Scouts from other districts. For questions, contact the Camp Chief, Sam Grinvalsky, at [email protected] or 757-639-4214.

National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT)

November 7-9 and November 14-16

National Youth Leadership Training is an exciting, action-packed program designed to provide youth members with leadership skills and experience they can use. Participants must attend both weekends:

  • Weekend 1: November 7-9 at Izaak Walton League Park, Chesapeake
  • Weekend 2: November 14-16 at Camp Kiwanis, Pipsico Scout Reservation

The NYLT course centers around the concepts of what a leader must BE, must KNOW, and must DO. The key elements are taught with a clear focus on HOW TO.

Content is delivered in a troop and patrol outdoor setting with an emphasis on the immediate application of learning in a fun environment. Interconnecting concepts and work processes are introduced early, built upon, and aided, which allows participants to understand and employ leadership skills much faster.

For more information, contact [email protected].

Tidewater Council shipswheel logo

Council Camporall

April 17-19, 2026

Tidewater Council is proud of its tradition of hosting exceptional weekend programs at Pipsico Scout Reservation, and is thrilled to announce plans for another outstanding experience.

Save the date for April 17–19, 2026, when Scouts from across the council will gather for the 2026 Council Camporall!

The dedicated planning committee is developing a fun and engaging theme, exciting activities, and memorable experiences for every Scouts BSA member—including current Arrow of Light Scouts who are preparing to cross over in early 2026.

Please save the date for this special event. More details are coming soon!

Pipsico Scout Reservation Summer Camp

June-July 2026

Pipsico Scout Reservation offers a wide variety of activities and programs that enable Scouts to earn awards while having fun!

Facilities include a 40-foot climbing and rappelling tower, air conditioned dining hall, swimming pool with ramp access for those with mobility needs, recently-renovated aquatics center, fully equipped health lodge, trading post, ranges for range and target activities, and more.

All Pipsico programs and facilities are Nationally Accredited.

What are you waiting for? Sign up for Summer Camp 2026 today and get ready for an awesome camping experience, at a beautiful property, with a friendly camp staff!

Week 1: June 21 – June 27
Week 2: June 28 – July 4
Week 3:
July 5 – July 11
Week 4: July 12 – July 18

2026 National Jamboree logo. Scouting America Elevate 2026 National Jamboree

National Scout Jamboree

July 22-31, 2026

Get ready for the ultimate Scouting experience! The 2026 National Scout Jamboree, being held from July 22-31, 2026 at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia, is more than just an event—it is a high-adventure, memory-making, confidence-building journey that your Scout will never forget.

Picture thousands of Scouts from across the country coming together for ten action-packed days of ziplining, mountain biking, rock climbing, water sports, skateboarding, fishing, patch trading, leadership development, and lifelong friendships.

The National Scout Jamboree is a chance for Scouts to grow, explore, and connect in a way that only Scouting can offer. Whether they are looking for adrenaline-pumping adventure or a deeper connection to the Scouting movement, the Jamboree delivers.

Do not miss this incredible opportunity to be part of something big. Spots are filling quickly—learn how your Scout can be part of the excitement by visiting TidewaterBSA.com/jamboree.

National Scholarship Program

Dreaming of the 2026 National Jamboree but concerned about the cost? The National Scholarship Program is here to help!

The National Scholarship Program for the 2026 National Jamboree is designed specifically for Scouts who are excited to join this life-changing experience but may need financial support to make it happen.

Details
  • Scholarships cover a portion of the national registration fee.
  • Additional council fees (travel, gear, etc.) are not included.
  • Full scholarships are rare; most awards cover less than half the national fee.
  • Staff members are not eligible, but those aged 16–29 receive a reduced staff fee.
Deadlines
  • Round 2: Apply by November 30, 2025 (notifications by mid-winter)
How to Apply
  1. Visit the official Jamboree site at Jamboree.Scouting.org/participants.
  2. Complete the online scholarship application.
  3. Submit by the deadline.

Don’t let finances hold you back. Apply today and take the first step toward an unforgettable adventure!

Logo for Poland 2027 World Scout 26th Jamboree Scout Mondial

World Scout Jamboree

July 30 - August 8, 2027

The World Scout Jamboree is held every four years around the world. The next Jamboree will be held in Gdansk, Poland in the summer of 2027 and will have approximately 45,000 Scouts and leaders from over 140 countries in attendance.

Age Requirements
  • Participants must be between the ages of 14-17 at the start of the Jamboree on July 30, 2027.
  • Those over 17 at the start of the Jamboree can apply to be a unit leader or on staff.
  • Those under age 14 are not eligible to attend the 2027 World Scout Jamboree. Save the date for the 2031 World Scout Jamboree in Denmark!
For More Information

News

Scout Shop

An Item for Patch Lovers

Have you ever wondered what to do with all the patches your Scout brings home? The Scout Shop has a new solution for you!

In stock now, Tidewater Council’s Scout Shop has a Scouting green backpack, made of felt, that uses Velcro to attach patches to the bag. It’s a great way to display your Scout pride and show off all of your special event or Cub Scout fun patches.

Come on in to the Scout Shop and check them out!

Scouting green felt backpack
Scouting America Prepared for Life T-shirtt
New Scouting America Adventure T-Shirt

New in stock this month, the Scout Shop has a Scouting America Prepared for Life t-shirt!

This 100% cotton shirt serves as a great activity uniform option when camping or hiking – or just wearing to show your support of awesome Scouting programs.

Check them out before they disappear from the shelves!

NEW Cub Scout T-Shirts

New Cub Scout T-shirts have arrived at the Tidewater Council Scout Shop!

Awesome for an activity uniform or everyday wear, these shirts come in six styles. Choose from rank options for Tiger, Wolf, Bear, Webelos, or Arrow of Light, or the “Follow the Pack” Cub Scout version.

Six activity t-shirts for Cub Scouts
Shop Local

Shop local at the Tidewater Council Scout Shop!

Did you know that all proceeds from the local Scout Shop directly benefit Scouting America Tidewater Council? When you shop local, your dollars make a difference for youth right here in Virginia and North Carolina.

Every dollar you spend in the Tidewater Council Scout Shop goes back into the programs that your Scouts are learning in, growing in, and becoming incredible human beings. When you welcome new families to your unit, please ask them to shop locally. Our staff are always available to help anyone new to the program, and we make finding everything you need easy.

Remember: Shop Local!

Scout Shop Hours

The Scout Shop’s next holiday closing is August 30 for Labor Day weekend.

Support A Scout - Snack Like A Hero

Popcorn

Looking for a way to fund an awesome program for your Scouts? The annual Popcorn Sale is here to help!

Six Things To Do in August
  1. Sell online at prpopcornstore.com. If you do not know your Scout’s Seller ID, please contact the Unit Popcorn Kernel.
  2. Submit the 2025 Popcorn Prizes & Military Donations form by August 20 for the first round of recognition.
  3. Place the unit’s next popcorn order by Wednesday, August 20.
  4. If your unit needs additional product to stock a Show & Sell, schedule an interim appointment on Wednesday, August 20 or Wednesday, August 27.
  5. Sell popcorn!
Getting Started
  1. Read the Popcorn Guide.
  2. Sign up for the sale at pecatonicariverpopcorn.com using Council Key 596TWC.
  3. Set sales goals.
  4. Hold a unit kick-off. Contact your district executive to get sales materials and a tasting kit.
  5. If you didn’t attend Popcorn 101 or Popcorn Training, view the recordings here.
  6. Contact your District Popcorn Kernel for help getting started.

Scouting Safety Moment

It is recommended to include a Scouting Safety Moment during meetings to inform Scouts and parents and keep everyone safe. Numerous downloadable Scouting Safety Moments are available here.

BSA SAFE Logo
Scouter Code of Conduct

Scouting America expects Scouters to follow the Scout Oath and Scout Law as well as other laws and regulations from local, state, and federal governments.

The Scouter Code of Conduct should be reviewed regularly; abiding by it is acknowledged by all adults when they complete an application.

Street sign reading "Registrar's Corner"

Registrar's Corner

Unit Renewal Reminders

With summer flying by, the time to get prepared for unit renewals is right around the corner. Remember:

  • Each unit must submit an Annual Charter Agreement to the council every year.
  • The Unit Renewal Fee is $100 per year.
  • Units and families must communicate with one another on how payments will be handled. Ensure families know if they should pay registration fees individually or if the unit will make the payment.
Upgrade to the Renewal Process

Starting this month, Scouting America will begin sending direct text reminders to members about upcoming renewals. These helpful reminders will be sent out 45 days before the membership expiration. 

MyScouting Moblie App Update

Effective August 18, the Scouting Calendar and Announcements features in the MyScouting mobile app will be discontinued. Unit leaders can continue to manage events and communications using the calendar feature in Scoutbook Plus. This updated platform offers a streamlined way to plan events, send announcements, and stay connected with the unit. Scouting America encourages all leaders to begin using Scoutbook Plus to ensure a smooth transition and uninterrupted communication. 

Scoutbook Plus

Scoutbook Plus will begin alerting parents and guardians who are not linked to their children in Akela, the membership database, that they need to verify their connections by December 31, 2025, or their access will be restricted. These connections are crucial for managing membership renewals and registrations. Stay up-to-date with changes to Scoutbook and ask questions by visiting discussions.scouting.org.

Now Hiring

district executive patch
Albemarle District Executive

Since 1910, Scouting has helped shape the future leaders of this country by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun. Scouting America believes and understands that helping youth puts us on a path towards a more conscientious, responsible, and productive society.

Today’s professional Scouters are a diverse group of men and women sharing a dynamic career offering independence, achievement, and stability. This is work that makes a difference, work that calls one to continual learning and challenge, work that offers solid compensation, benefits, and advancement.

If you or someone you know is interested in making a difference through a career in Scouting, please contact Bill Lawrence at [email protected].

Join Our Team graphic with Pipsico Scout Reservation logo
Summer Camp Staff Opportunities

Join the team at Pipsico Scout Reservation!

Are you ready to make a difference next summer and create unforgettable experiences for Scouts and fellow staff members? Pipsico Scout Reservation is looking for enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join our team! Whether you’re passionate about outdoor education, adventure programming, or supporting behind the scenes, we have a role for you.

Positions Available

  • Camp Director
  • Program Director
  • Camp Commissioners
  • Area Directors: Huskanaw, Aquatics, Waterfront, Pool, Nature, Scout Craft, Heritage, Handicraft, Shooting Sports, Climbing, Trading Post, PEX High Adventure Program
  • Dining Hall Manager
  • Medic/Health and Safety Officer
  • Program Staff
  • Kitchen Crew
  • Camp Counselors
  • Administrative Support

Why Work at Pipsico?

  • Gain valuable leadership and teamwork skills.
  • Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while making lasting memories.
  • Be part of a vibrant and supportive Scouting community.

Religious Emblems

Cub Scout Family and Reverence Adventures

Cub Scouts of all ages may choose to earn their rank-specific Family & Reverence Adventure by earning the Religious Emblem of their family’s preference.

The Religious Emblems programs have been developed over the years by religious groups in conjunction with Scouting America. Though the programs are administered by the religious groups themselves, they have been approved by Scouting America.

Scouts working on the Religious Emblem for their faith use curriculum booklets produced by their religious organization. Contact the Scout Shop to ask about the booklets in stock, or reach out to your religious organization to obtain the proper curriculum booklet.

If a Cub Scout’s religious emblem award covers two years, then they’ve earned the Family & Reverence Adventures for both of those years.

Learn more by reading “Cub Scouting’s Family & Reverence Adventures are great for winter break” from Aaron on Scouting.

Virtual Religious Emblem Opportunity

P.R.A.Y. (Programs of Religious Activities with Youth) has an opportunity for Protestant Scouts to earn their religious medal virtually.

Salem in Ballwin United Methodist Church, P.R.A.Y., and the national committees and associations of Protestant faiths announced that national virtual programs are returning for 2025. While not intended to replace in-person religious emblems or awards participation, this program makes the religious emblems available to all youth, especially those who are having difficulty finding an in-person class or congregational support near them.

These classes are open to any Protestant, Non-Denominational, or Independent Christian youth in any organization, grades K-12, who is interested in fortifying their experience through their faith.

Classes will be offered in each of the five program levels and will be presented over Zoom. There is room for 2,000 total students (400 per program offered). Registration is free and open until September 30.

Detailed information for each program and registration can be found by visiting the P.R.A.Y. Virtual Programs page at praypub.org/virtual-programs.

Contact

For questions on Religious Emblems programs, contact Marianne Tate at [email protected].

Help Needed: Camp Moonyah Improvement Projects

Camp Moonyah has been an integral part of Tidewater Council’s camps for more than 85 years. As such, it has a rich history hosting functions, events, celebrations, and ceremonies encompassing all arenas of the Scouting program. Over the past many, many decades, dedicated volunteers have continually strived to improve the camp to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences for all. Even with past improvements, it is time to bring this facility into the 21st century.

Potable Water

Many thanks to a generous donor who has funded the potable water project!

Introduction of Electrical Power

Working with Dominion Power, bringing power into Camp Moonyah will require several measured electrical wire runs of 250’+ from a transformer located off property to the maintenance shed where the meter base would be located. Because of the distance, a 25kw transformer will be required to maintain a continual, safe load of power. The cost of connection to a power source, running a total of 500’+ of underground cable, the transformer, and other fees associated with this project will run from $10,000 – $12,000.

What's Next?

To achieve the success of these projects, we are reaching out to you in Tidewater Council to help fund the electrical power project either in full or in part. By doing so, you will ensure the continued success and growth of Camp Moonyah for decades to come.

For questions or to find out more about how you can support Camp Moonyah improvements, please contact Ron Misfeldt at [email protected] and Wes Parker at [email protected].

Development Corner

Photo of two tents at Pipsico Scout Reservation in front of the barn
Sponsor a Tent at Pipsico Scout Reservation

Many of Pipsico Scout Reservation’s tents have been in service for 30 years. In order to continue to provide a high-quality camping experience for our Scouts, Tidewater Council is replacing 200 tents between 2023-2027. 

Based on the recommendation of our Camping Committee, we are replacing the current wooden platforms and ridge pole system tents with new platforms and tents with aluminum-mounted frames. In addition to housing Scouts and keeping them dry, the new tents will exponentially decrease the time needed for tent setup and takedown. The cost of a new tent, platform, and frame is approximately $1,640 each. A contribution in any amount is appreciated, and will be designated to provide new tents at Pipsico.

Thank you for ensuring that our Scouts enjoy their camping adventures at Pipsico!

Leave a Legacy: James E. West Fellowship Award

The James E. West Fellowship Award is a national recognition for individuals who contribute $1,000 or more in cash or securities to the Tidewater Council endowment fund. This contribution is in addition to, and does not diminish or replace, the donor’s annual gift to the council’s Friends of Scouting campaign.

Organizations or individuals may contribute an award in honor of someone — an Eagle Scout, a Silver Beaver recipient, Living Legend, or any outstanding Scout or Scouter.

Program Ideas

August
  • Family Fun Month
    • Go camping.
    • Have a barbecue or campfire.
    • Go fishing.
    • Have a family field day at a local park.
    • Invite new families to check out Scouting’s adventures!
  • National Radio Day: August 20
  • National Trail Mix Day: August 31
    • Go for a hike and enjoy some trail mix.
    • Discuss the best trail mix ingredients – and then make some!
    • If you’re selling popcorn, tell your customers it’s National Trail Mix Day.
September
  • Self Improvement Month
    • Encourage Scouts to set personal goals for the coming school/program year.
    • Once Scouts set personal goals, guide them to develop plans for attaining their goals.
    • Work on a merit badge with a built-in action plan, such as Personal Management or Personal Fitness.
    • Encourage Scouts to try out a new activity or hobby. From fishing to cycling to woodworking, there’s likely Scouting America curriculum to help them get started!
  • World Suicide Prevention Day: September 10
  • Patriot Day: September 11
    • Share the 9/11 Memorial & Museum’s tips for Talking to Children about Terrorism with parents in your unit.
    • Make cards to thank first responders.
    • Invite a firefighter or police officer to be a special visitor at a unit meeting.
  • Constitution Day: September 17
  • National Cooking Day: September 25
    • Share cooking and food-related Safety Moments:
    • Work on the Cooking merit badge.
    • Work on the rank-specific Cub Scout personal fitness Adventure:
      • Fun on the Run (Lion): Identify the five different food groups.
      • Tiger Bites (Tiger): Identify the five different food groups.
      • Running with the Pack (Wolf): Sample three different foods that are naturally three different colors. The food must be a protein, vegetable, fruit, dairy, or a grain.
      • Bear Strong (Bear): Sample food from three of the following food groups: protein, vegetables, fruits, dairy, and grains.
      • Stronger, Faster, Higher (Webelos): With your den or family, plan, cook, and eat a balanced meal.
      • Personal Fitness (Arrow of Light): Plan a balanced meal that you would eat when camping. Prepare that meal using the gear you would use on a campout.

Community Engagement

2025 Tidewater Veterans Day Parade: Honoring Vietnam Veterans

The 2025 Tidewater Veterans Day Parade will be a special opportunity to honor Vietnam War veterans, with the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. This year’s event will include The Moving Wall that honors those who passed in the war.

Any Vietnam War veterans who are interested in being a key component of the Scouting America Tidewater Council parade contingent should contact [email protected] to learn more.

2026 Virginia DWR Archery Open

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) invites the archery and conservation community to participate in the 2026 DWR Archery Open. The second annual competition will take place Saturday, January 10, 2026 in Richmond, Virginia.

Complete the interest form at dwr.virginia.gov/archery-open to subscribe to event updates.

Community Care Assistance

Does your family need assistance accessing community resources? Tidewater Council is a partner agency with United Way of South Hampton Roads and Albemarle Area United Way, as well as a member of the Unite Us Hampton Roads United Coordinated Network and NCCARE360. For coordinated care referrals, please contact us. You may also visit NC 211 or 2-1-1 Virginia for assistance finding resources.

Volunteer Opportunities

Visit our Volunteer with Local Scouting webpage for information on additional volunteer opportunities.

Scouts in Action

Congratulations to Tidewater Council’s new Eagle Scouts!

Logo for Eagle Scout Scouting America
Tatum B., Troop 1791
Logo for Eagle Scout Scouting America
Joshua L., Troop 660
Logo for Eagle Scout Scouting America
Andy L., Troop 127
Logo for Eagle Scout Scouting America
Jacob R., Troop 362
Logo for Eagle Scout Scouting America
William S., Troop 127
Logo for Eagle Scout Scouting America
Aidan S., Troop 481
Logo for Eagle Scout Scouting America
Cole W., Troop 791
Scouts canoeing during a waterway cleanup in Virginia Beach

Scouts from Troops 5364 and 364 proudly volunteered at Clean the Bay Day at Hutton Launch in Virginia Beach, taking part in the Scouting for Clean Waterways initiative. Armed with gloves, trash bags, and teamwork, the Scouts helped remove 1,162.4 pounds of litter from both the shoreline and surrounding waters. Their efforts not only helped protect local wildlife and preserve natural beauty, but also demonstrated the core values of Scouting.

Scouts collecting litter from the Hutton Launch shoreline
Scouts with litter collected at Clean the Bay Day at Hutton Launch
Scouts at Clean the Bay Day 2025 Hutton Launch
Volunteer group photo after a popcorn delivery

A huge thank you to the amazing volunteers who helped unload 53,560 pounds of popcorn products on Thursday, August 7!

Group photo at the ribbon-cutting for the new Sentara Albemarle Medical Center

Tidewater Council was pleased to celebrate Sentara Albemarle Medical Center’s Community Day ribbon-cutting for their brand-new, state-of-the-art facility in July! SAMC is the sponsoring organization for medical Exploring Post 252.

Pictured, from left:
Teresa Watson, President, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center
Dr. Donald Bowling, Tidewater Council Executive Board Member and Chief Medical Officer, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center
James Parnell, Tidewater Council Scout Executive
Sara Parnell, parent of two Tidewater Council Scouts
Steven Smith, Tidewater Council Executive Board Member
Christy Cooper, Tidewater Council Development Director
Jon Cooper, Tidewater Council Executive Board Member
Christina Raymer, Tidewater Council District Executive

We want to hear from you! Send stories, photos, and videos of your Scouts in action to [email protected] (with parental permission, of course). 

Subscribe

Subscribe

We hope you’ve enjoyed this edition of the “EK” Electronic Knapsack. Sign up to receive the latest Tidewater Council news.