Table of Contents
Friends of Scouting
Due to increased Friends of Scouting giving in 2020, Tidewater Council was able to decrease council fees associated with the 2021 charter renewal by 42%. Help continue to support fellow Scouting families by making a pledge to the 2021 Friends of Scouting campaign.
You can donate online via the donate button at the top of this page. The look of our online donation portal has changed, but, as before, all Friends of Scouting donations stay local and benefit the same Scouting program you love. You can also fill out a Friends of Scouting pledge card and email it to shannon.foster@scouting.org.
Progress as of February 15, 2021:
Each district shares a portion of the overall goal.
Progress as of February 15, 2021:
Upcoming Events
Many events have been canceled or postponed due to COVID-19.
Click here for a continuously updated list of event changes. Tidewater Council’s official updates and policies can be found here.
Radio Scouting - Technician Course
Now through April 8
The Tidewater Council International Scouting Committee (ISC), in partnership with the Chesapeake Amateur Radio Service (CARS), is pleased to announce a series of online presentations to prepare Scouts and family members to take the Technician Class exam to become amateur (“ham”) radio operators. Presentations began Thursday, February 11 from 7-9 PM and run for nine weeks, after which an FCC license exam will be held. Students are able to make up missed sessions. Registration for the series of presentations is a nominal fee of $5; contact kirsten.kopiczak@scouting.org for registration assistance.
Philmont Informational Meetings
February 18
Tidewater Council is putting together a council Philmont Contingent for summer 2022. For more information about this opportunity, check out the flyer and the upcoming informational Zoom meeting on February 18 at 6 PM.
RSVP to Bill.Lawrence2@scouting.org to receive the meeting link and credentials.
Merit Badge Counselor Orientation
February 20
Join us at the Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center to learn the policies and procedures behind being an effective merit badge counselor.
National Celebration Event for the Inaugural Class of Female Eagle Scouts
February 21
Mark your calendars for a special event celebrating America’s first female Eagle Scouts. On February 21, 2021 at 8 PM, the BSA will mark this historic milestone. The event will be streamed on Facebook Live and YouTube.
Camp Card Training
February 23 and 25
Help Scouts earn their way to camp with the 2021 Camp Card Sale! Camp Cards are cards that offer valuable discounts to local retailers. Some of the discounts are single-use, while many can be used throughout the year. Scouts sell the cards to family, friends, neighbors, and community members. Units earn a sales commission, which they can use to pay for camping adventures.
For more information, check out the flyer and attend one of the upcoming Zoom trainings.
- February 23 at 7 PM
- February 25 at 7 PM
RSVP to Susan.Miley-Petrehn@scouting.org to receive the meeting link and credentials.
Klondike Derby
February 27-28
A Klondike Derby is an event held by the Boy Scouts of America during the winter months and is based on the heritage of the Klondike Gold Rush. The Klondike Derby consists of a race between multiple stations where patrols/ teams/ units will test their Scoutcraft skills and their leadership abilities, earning points towards a total score. Each team must transport their gear on a homemade sled pulled by the Scouts. No meals will be provided this year; participants should plan and bring all meals.
This event is open to Scouts BSA, Venturers, Sea Scouts, and Explorers and is entirely co-ed. Each unit will have one sled and determine the 4- to 8-person team for each trek. Other Scouts are encouraged to cheer on their team as they complete each station. Unit/teams will lose points for any additional assistance from bystanders. Participants may be considered youth through age 20; however registrants aged 18-20 may register as adults if they are supporting youth in a capacity of a “BSA Adult Member.”
Due to COVID-19 regulations, some of the features of the Klondike Derby which you have come to know and love have had to change. It will still be a fantastic event, just with a couple of modifications for this year. Under current guidelines, patrols will all camp individually to comply with the limitation of groups no larger than 10. Check-in for the Klondike Derby will run from 8 AM to noon on Saturday, February 27, with the sled check at 1 PM. The event will run until 2 PM on Sunday, February 28.
Don’t have the space to build a sled? There are still spots available for our Procrastination Class, which has patrols hiking with their sled’s contents and competing in the challenges using just their wits and what’s in their packs.
VFW Scout of the Year Nominations Due
March 1
Annually, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States awards three Scouts who have achieved the highest rank in their Scouting program and who exemplify the qualities of that rank. For members of the BSA, that means the Scout is a recipient of the Eagle Scout Award, Venture Summit Award, or Sea Scout Quartermaster Award. Scouts must be registered, active members of their troop, crew, or ship, and must demonstrate exemplary citizenship in school, Scouting, and community.
There is no minimum age requirement for applicants as long as all other eligibility criteria has been met. The maximum age requirement for applicants is 18 years old. If an applicant reaches their 18th birthday during the nomination year, they remain eligible as long as they are still in high school at the time of the submission deadline. Furthermore, the student does not have to be a military dependent, nor do they need to be related to a VFW or VFW Auxiliary member to participate in this program.
Awards are:
- $5,000 1st place National scholarship
- $3,000 2nd place National scholarship
- $1,000 3rd place National scholarship
To apply, submit:
- Photograph of the Scout
- School Participation Record
- Scouting Record
- Community Service Record
- Letters of Recommendation
- Completed Entry Form
Complete rules and eligibility requirements can be found at www.vfw.org/community/youth-and-education/scout-of-the-year. Contact Connie Mitchell, Scholarship Chairman of VFW Post 392 Auxiliary, at cjmitchell02531@gmail.com. The deadline for entering the VFW Scout of the Year Award is March 1, 2021.
Pinewood Derby
Cub Scouts of Tidewater Council, it’s time to start your ENGINES! Join us to race your cars once again at your District Pinewood Derbies.
Albemarle District Pinewood Derby: March 6
Get ready to rumble at the Albemarle District Pinewood Derby via Tidewater Council’s Facebook Live on March 6 at 9:30 AM. All racers of each rank from every pack in Albemarle District are eligible to race. Arrows of Light (AOL) who have just bridged to a troop are still eligible. Family Fun Run races are an open class that will race after the qualified racers. The entry fee for qualified pack racers is $8.50 per car. Family racers are $10 per car (No trophies, this is for bragging rights only).
Registration is available on Black Pug. Late registration starts February 21 and the deadline to register is Saturday, February 27.
Bayside District Pinewood Derby: March 13
Tune in on Facebook Live for the Bayside District races on March 13, starting at approximately 8:45 AM. Due to health and safety protocols, we are asking packs to keep their winning cars, put them in resealable bags with the Derby Car Entry Form, and arrange to drop them off as a unit package at the Scout Shop. Unit registration is online via Black Pug.
Three Rivers District Pinewood Derby: March 13
It is Pinewood Derby Race time!
The Three Rivers District races are March 13 and will be broadcast via Facebook Live starting at approximately 12:45 PM. Due to the continued COVID situation, we are asking packs to keep their winning cars, put them in resealable bags with the Derby Car Entry Form, and arrange to drop them off as a unit package with Kirsten Misfeldt. Please make arrangements by emailing kirsten.kopiczak@scouting.org or calling 757-323-6172.
For more details on the Three Rivers races, please see the guidebook. Register online through Black Pug.
Princess Anne District Pinewood Derby: March 27
Save the date for the Princess Anne District Pinewood Derby on March 27. More information is coming soon.
Council Pinewood Derby: April 10
The top three winners of each rank at each District Pinewood Derby qualify for entry into the Tidewater Council Pinewood Derby.
The District Pinewood Derby chairs will retain all qualifying cars for the council derby at the district races. There is no additional cost to those who qualify at the council level. So, get ready to zoooommmmm on over to Tidewater Council’s Facebook Live page to take part in some high-speed fun on April 10, starting with opening ceremonies at 11 AM. Ask your friends and family to cheer you on as well.
Order of the Arrow March Service and Ordeal Weekend
March 19-20
Registration is now open on Black Pug for the March Service and Ordeal Weekend. New candidates are invited to register and attend. If you have an unused registration from 2020, please use the Carryover Registration type on Black Pug. If you are unsure if you are eligible for a Carryover Registration, contact Noel Falcon at Nfalcon001@gmail.com.
To meet the current COVID-19 restrictions, we will only have one overnight. At this time, we plan for the event to end Saturday evening after dinner. Details will be emailed to the participants as we get closer to the event date.
There will be limited registration for current members, to keep everyone safe and to comply with COVID-19 restrictions.
VFW Wood Badge Scholarship Deadline
March 31
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), in cooperation with the National Council BSA, has developed a scholarship program that may cover up to $200 of the Wood Badge tuition for members of the VFW or Auxiliary. The application deadline is March 31.
Tidewater Council’s 2021 Wood Badge course is scheduled for April 30-May 2, 2021 and May 22-23, 2021.
Spring Break Day Camp
April 5-9
Calling all budding scientists and space explorers! Join us for Tidewater Council’s first-ever Spring Break day camp: Endless Voyage! Participate in a week-long program discovering the wonders of space through a lens of STEM. Save the date for April 5-9, and watch the EK for a registration link, coming soon to Black Pug. Contact James Carroll at padaycamp@gmail.com or 757-550-0624 with questions.
Three Rivers Spring Camporee
April 10-11
Join us for a fantastic camping weekend at Pipsico Scout Reservation, Camp Lions. There will be team challenges for units to compete for the Traveling Trophy. Registration is coming soon. Three Rivers Scoutmasters, please check your email for the Zoom meeting invitation for the February 19 planning meeting. Contact Mike Z. at mzemski@cox.net for the link to the planning meeting and to become part of team.
IOLS (Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills) will be offered during this event. You must register for the event and then select the course. There will be a small additional fee to cover course materials.
Albemarle Spring Camporee
April 16-18
Plot ye course for Albemarle District’s Spring Camporee. All troops, crews, and ships are invited to join us for some swashbuckling fun at our pirate-themed camporee. The ship sets sail soon, so chart your course for the weekend of Friday, April 16. Details and registration are coming soon.
Spring Merit Badge Camp
April 24-25
Come camp and earn some merit badges at Pipsico Scout Reservation. This camp is designed to fit within the COVID-19 guidelines, so please read the details carefully.
Meals will be provided, including Saturday lunch and dinner, as well as Sunday breakfast and lunch. Patrols will have a time to come through the dining hall to get their meals to-go and return to their campsites to eat. Check-in will be Saturday morning from 8:15-8:45 AM and Scouts will go to their first merit badge sessions directly. Campsite set-up will be during the two-hour lunch break. We will hold two merit badge sessions on Saturday and one on Sunday morning. Campsite pack-up and check-out will be after lunch on Sunday.
Maximum group sizes at this time are ten, counting youth and adults, so prepare to patrol camp with two-deep leadership. PLEASE NOTE: To minimize contact, patrols will have to travel to a merit badge session together as a group. We will ask each patrol to provide their top five merit badge choices, and we will develop a schedule to include three of those. Please email kirsten.kopiczak@scouting.org to volunteer to be a Merit Badge Counselor for this event.
Registration opens on March 1 on Black Pug.
Annual Leadership Breakfast
May 4
Join us for the Annual Leadership Breakfast on Tuesday, May 4, 2021 at 7:15 AM at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. Those in attendance will have the opportunity to make a significant Friends of Scouting gift and to hear from keynote speaker Rocky Bleier, veteran of the U.S. Army and the Pittsburgh Steelers, Bronze Star and Purple Heart recipient, and four-time Super Bowl champion! Donors who give at or above the Patron Level ($500) will receive an autographed memorabilia item.
RSVP to Shannon Foster at shannon.foster@scouting.org.
Wilderness/Remote First Aid
May 15-16
Register now for Wilderness/Remote First Aid – space is limited!
All High Adventure Bases require that at least one person in each crew (two for Philmont) be currently certified in Wilderness First Aid or the equivalent and CPR from the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, or equivalent. It is also recommended for any unit that is conducting backcountry hiking or camping trips.
Pre-requisites:
- Current CPR/AED certification is required to attend this course. Please bring your card to the course for verification.
- Be at least 14 years of age on or before the last scheduled session of the course.
Council Banquet
May 27
Join us at 6 PM on Thursday, May 27 to celebrate outstanding Scouts, Scout volunteers, and 2020 Eagle Scouts. Enjoy a delicious meal prepared by the OA Cook Crew! At the annual Tidewater Council Recognition Banquet, we will present Silver Beaver awards, the National Outstanding Eagle Scout Award, the Glenn A. and Melinda W. Adams Eagle Scout Service Project of the Year Award, and more.
This year, the event will be held at the Khedive Shrine Center, 645 Woodlake Drive, Chesapeake, VA. Registration is coming soon.
National Youth Leadership Training
June 21-26
Tidewater Council will hold a National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) course at Pipsico Scout Reservation on June 21-26. NYLT is a 6-day, action-packed program designed to provide youth with leadership skills.
When Scouts attend this premier leadership training experience, the knowledge they gain has a direct influence for the continued and enduring success of their unit. A trained youth leader will contribute significantly to retention, recruitment, and unit operations.
Age requirements apply:
- Scouts BSA: 13 years of age or older and at least a First Class Scout by June 21, 2021
- Sea Scouts and Venturers: 14 years or older by June 21, 2021 and under age 21 as of June 26, 2021
Cost:
- $275 if paid on or before April 21, 2021
- $285 if paid April 22 – May 21, 2021
- $295 if paid on or after May 22, 2021
If you have any questions, please contact Course Director Frances Creel at nylt6958@gmail.com. Registration opens on February 21 on Black Pug.
Summer Camp at Pipsico 2021
June 27 - July 24
Sign up today for Summer Camp at Pipsico Scout Reservation.
Week #1 – June 27 to July 3
Week #2 – July 4 to July 10
Week #3 – July 11 to July 17
Week #4 – July 18 to July 24
Check-in on Sundays between 1 PM and 4:30 PM.
Pipsico offers Scouts and Scouters the opportunity to immerse themselves in a positive camping environment, at a beautiful property, with a friendly camp staff. Tidewater Council, BSA is proud to offer quality programs for everyone. Pipsico is geographically located along the James River and adjacent to the epicenter of Virginia’s colonial attractions and thrilling entertainment, such as Busch Gardens and Water Country USA.
Our First Year Camper Program – “Huskanaw,” meaning “Rite of Passage,” is a unique program. The Huskanaw program area encompasses over an acre of property, filled with amenities specifically designed to focus on requirements for Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class ranks. The setting teaches new and younger Scouts about troop structure, the value of the Patrol Method, the importance of the Buddy System, and the benefits of learning and applying new skills using the E.D.G.E. Method (Explain Demonstrate Guide Enable).
News
Scout Shop
Price Increases
The National Council BSA soon will be increasing prices on Cub Scout and Scout uniforms, accessories, and many Cub Scout awards. All uniform shirts, pants, shorts, and skorts will increase by $5 each. All uniform caps are increasing by $3 each. All socks, belts, neckerchiefs, and slides will increase by $1 each. Shoulder loops will increase by $0.40 each and troop numbers will increase by $0.10 each.
All Cub Scout adventure loops and Arrow of Light and Webelos adventure pins will increase by $0.20 each. Units may purchase Cub Scout adventure loops and Arrow of Light and Webelos adventure pins in advance since they are NOT restricted.
For youth and adults needing uniforms, NOW is the time to shop. Increases go into effect starting March 8, 2021.
February Celebrations
February is a month of celebration for the BSA as we commemorate the anniversary of Scouting (Feb. 8), Scout Sunday (Feb. 7/ Feb. 14), Scout Sabbath (Feb. 5-6), Scout Jumuah (Feb. 5), and even Scouting for Food (Feb. 6-14). Having patches to remember these events is important to participants. This year we have the cheerful Scout Sunday patch ($2.99) and the colorful Scouting for Food Patch ($1.49).
Pinewood Derby
Since many packs are holding Pinewood Derby races virtually this year, awards are even more important. Pinewood Derby patches are available for all participants ($1.79). The Scout Shop also carries recognition items for first, second, and third place winners. You can choose from the red, white, and blue car medals ($2.99 each), the gold, silver, and bronze neck lanyards ($3.99 each), and the gold, silver, and bronze trophies ($8.99 each).
Journey to Excellence (JTE) Patches
Need JTE patches? We are still taking pre-orders ($2.19 each) and they are usually here within the week.
Cub Scout Jackets
With winter arriving, keep your Cubs warm with BSA jackets. The Cub Scout hoodies in navy and dark red sell for $24.99. Our small supply of Columbia fleece jackets is now on clearance, a great deal at only $25.88 (originally $34.99). All the jackets and hoodies are in youth sizes only (S-XL). Some of the Columbia fleece jackets are hooded dark green with the BSA logo. Come get ’em while we still have ’em! They are no longer available at National Supply. For adults, we have the traditional red wool washable shirt jackets for $79.99. These shirt jackets never go out of style for Scouters, and they are great for layering in cold weather.
Flag Retirement
Need flags for retirement ceremonies? We have plenty of donated flags, just ask at the front counter.
Scout Requirements Books 2021
We have been informed by the National Council BSA that there will be no 2021 Requirement handbooks this year. Use the Advancement webpage at scouting.org/programs/scouts-bsa/advancement-and-awards/merit-badges. The requirement changes for 2021 are highlighted on the right side of the screen.
Unable to Shop In-Person?
Just give us a call (757-497-2688) or email polly.fugate@scouting.org with your order. We can call for a credit card number (VISA or Mastercard) and ship it to you by USPS.
2021 Cub Scout Day Camp
Weird Science is about to hit Cub Scout Day Camp. Day camp is an outdoor experience for Cub Scouts, ranging in length from one day up to a week. Camps vary in the hours of operation, but a typical time is 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Twilight camps normally run from 3 PM to 8 PM, giving parents the opportunity to be involved on a more flexible schedule.
Cub Scout Day Camp promotes year-round Cub Scout program and encourages Cub Scouts to benefit and grow with a good outdoor experience. The daily program centers on Cub Scout and Webelos electives as they relate to the outdoor program. The Scouts will work on activities that are challenging and age appropriate.
There are a wide range of activities, varying between camps, but common activities include:
- Shooting sports (BBs, archery, wrist rockets, and/or sling shots)
- Sports and games
- Science
- Nature
- Crafts
- Skits and songs
- Mealtime programs
All registered Cub Scouts are eligible to attend day camp. All day camps are run with a Camp Director and a Program Director, along with a staff of volunteers to conduct the camp programs. You are invited to be part of the staff – contact Christy Cooper for more information. Registration is now available on Black Pug.
Camp Staff for Summer 2021
What are your plans for next summer? Are you looking for an awesome opportunity to learn new things, develop new skills, share what you know, meet new people, work an internship, and enjoy Pipsico Scout Reservation?
We are accepting applications for Counselors in Training, Junior staff, Area directors, Commissioners, and administration. Program areas include aquatics, shooting sports, Scout skills for new Scouts and for seasoned Scouts, handicraft, cook-crew, and more.
You must be at least 14 years of age by June 20, 2021 to be considered. Camp staff is composed of youth, young adults, college students, school teachers, bus drivers, professionals who want to get away from the office, and folks who have an open schedule. Fill out the online application at pipsicobsa.com/summer-camp-programs/staffapplication and we will contact you for an interview.
Why Scouting?
What do you say when someone asks you about Scouting? Do you have an elevator speech for Scouting?
An elevator speech is a short, concise pitch, just long enough to make your point during an average 30-second elevator ride. Of course, you don’t have to be in an elevator to use your elevator speech. You can use an elevator speech anywhere you have an interested audience with a short amount of time available – during a PTA meeting, at a youth sports league, doctor’s appointments, while you’re waiting for one more person to log onto your teleconference meeting… the list goes on.
What benefits do you highlight when you talk about Scouting?
- Social interaction
- Enjoying the great outdoors
- Scouting helps with academics
- Leadership development
- For military families or other families who may be relocating – the BSA can provide a stable influence throughout the country and even internationally
- The opportunity to try different hobbies and careers
- A youth organization that is family-friendly
What would you add to this list? Send your suggestions to richard.becker@scouting.org.
Recruiting
Has your unit developed an action plan for spring recruiting? Work with your unit commissioner and district executive to come up with a plan to inform new families about your unit and how to join. This is just as important for Venturing crews, Sea Scout ships, Scouts BSA troops, and Exploring posts as it is for Cub Scout packs. While most older Scouts start out in Cub Scouts, approximately 7% of Scouts BSA members are new to Scouting when they join Scouts BSA. What is your unit doing to reach older youth?
- Instead of a joining meeting, invite potential new youth and parents to your unit’s most fun activities:
- Camping
- Hikes
- Field days
- Ropes course
- Game night
- Ask current Scouts to create videos about how much they like Scouting and why their friends should join. Share the videos!
- Coordinate a day for all current Scouts to wear their favorite troop or Pipsico t-shirt to school.
- Invite younger youth so the unit continues to grow.
- Invite members of your chartered organization’s youth groups to your events.
Troop Resource Survey
The Troup Resource Survey is a tool for engaging parents in a Scouts BSA troop. Once you know the interests of the parents, it easier to strike up a conversation and engage on a more personal level. Parents with a unique hobby or career may make good guest speakers at troop events. The survey enables the troop to discover the hidden talents of the parents, and perhaps recruit some new merit badge counselors or fill additional support positions for the troop as well.
BSA Safety Moment
It is recommended to include a BSA Safety Moment during meetings to inform Scouts and parents and keep everyone safe. Numerous downloadable BSA Safety Moments are available here.
Hypothermia
Hypothermia is an abnormally low body temperature that is dangerous and, if not properly treated, potentially fatal. Hypothermia most often occurs when individuals are exposed to extremely cold temperatures for extended periods of time. However, it can also occur in warmer environments in situations such as wearing wet clothing in windy conditions, becoming chilled from being in the rain for an extended period, or submersion in cold water. Sweating leads to wet clothing, which increases the possibility of becoming chilled. Dressing in layers that are easy to put on or take off will help you to avoid becoming chilled or becoming too warm and sweating heavily in your clothes. Planning is essential before a trek or outing to make sure you are prepared for possible changes in environmental conditions.
Awards Highlight
The BSA offers numerous awards to recognize the accomplishments of Scouts and Scouters. Some are much better known than others. Some of the lesser known awards include:
- 50th Anniversary Environmental Protection Agency Award: To commemorate the Environmental Protection Agency’s anniversary, they have collaborated with the BSA to create a special award. The award is designed to teach Scouts about their world and encourage them to explore and preserve it.
- BSA Complete Angler Award: Recognize Scouts who have earned the three fishing-related merit badges and completed a special project.
- Cub Scout Outdoor Activity Award: Recognition for Cub Scouts who attend day or resident camp and complete a series of adventures.
- International Spirit Award: This temporary emblem awards Scouts and Scouters for participating in international Scouting activities, gaining a greater knowledge of international Scouting, and developing a greater appreciation and awareness of different cultures and countries.
- Venturing Shooting Sports Outstanding Achievement Award: Venturers who go beyond basic requirements and complete five of the seven shooting sports disciplines can earn this award.
More information about BSA recognitions is available at the Awards Central webpage.
Upgrade Your Training
After you’ve taken the position training for your role in Scouting, what’s next? Scouting promotes continuous learning not only for youth, but also for adult leaders.
- Position Training: Provides the basics to enable adults to deliver a quality program. You can take the training for any position, which is a great opportunity to learn what other leaders do or to prepare for a role you may take on in the future.
- Current Webelos and Arrow of Light Leaders: It is highly encouraged to take Scoutmaster Specific training now, so you are prepared when youth crossover into Scouts BSA troops.
- Facilitators Development Series: A collection of short (each one is 12 minutes or less) videos that cover key facilitation skills including learning styles, managing difficult conversations, and more.
- Expanded Learning: Optional courses that cover topics such as safety, succession planning, and STEM counseling may broaden your abilities.
My.Scouting Tools
While you may be familiar with some of the My.Scouting tools, such as Training Manager and Application Manager, there are many less frequently utilized tools that can also provide a substantial benefit for your unit.
- Organization Security Manager allows members of the unit Key 3 to assign roles to unit volunteers. Assigned roles including Unit Advancement Chair, Unit Training Chair, and Registration Inquiry provide these leaders with access to additional tools.
- Organization Manager allows units to update their BeAScout pin and set a custom welcome email. Through this tool, you can also set up sub-groups for patrols or dens.
Help Desk
The National Council no longer has a volunteer help desk. If you need assistance with any help desk issues, including Scoutbook, online training, and address changes, please contact us at helpdesk@tidewaterbsa.com. In your email, please include:
- Your Name
- Member ID
- Contact Phone Number
- Contact Email Address
- What is the issue? (Password reset, a module is freezing, forgot username, etc.)
- If it is a training issue:
- Username
- Date Training Taken
- Browser Used
Due to high volume, we are unable to respond to phone inquiries; please send all help desk issues via email.
Development Corner
Planned Giving: Life Insurance
Life insurance is a convenient way to make a future gift to Scouting with a minimum investment. You may designate the purpose of your gift, and when Scouting receives the policy proceeds, they will be used as you specified.
- Paid-up policies – A gift of existing life insurance that you own may be completed by assigning ownership and delivering the policy to Scouting. You may qualify for an immediate income tax charitable deduction for the current value of such a policy.
- Not fully paid-up policies – When you transfer ownership to Scouting but continue making the premium payments, you may qualify for a charitable deduction on the premium payments.
- Scouting as your beneficiary – Although there are no lifetime tax benefits in doing so, you may designate Scouting as beneficiary of insurance you own or receive from your employer. Most designations can be completed simply and conveniently with the help of your agent or employee benefits coordinator. If you have excess group term insurance, you may want to name Scouting as a beneficiary of the unneeded amounts. You can also designate Tidewater Council as a contingent beneficiary of an existing policy.
This is not intended as legal advice; please consult with your tax adviser. Please contact Dr. Susan Miley-Petrehn at 757-284-0796 or susan.miley-petrehn@scouting.org if you have any questions on planned giving.
Vehicle Donation
Did you know that you can donate an automobile to Tidewater Council? Imagine giving away something that may be of no value to you but could mean a dream trip to summer camp for a youth, or a new uniform for a young Scout joining the program. Now imagine a dozen or more people doing the same thing – it could mean new program equipment or much-needed upgrades for Pipsico Scout Reservation! Donate your used car, van, truck, boat with a trailer, or recreational vehicle to Tidewater Council by calling 757-497-2688.
Scouts in Action
Congratulations to new Eagle Scouts in Tidewater Council!
Tidewater Council donated Scout popcorn to give back to local community organizations.
John S. of Princess Anne Troop 362 completed his Eagle project for Little Island Park in Sandbridge, Virginia Beach on February 6. He successfully led over 40 Scouts, Scouters, and friends in a Seagrass Conservation project. Eight units participated in the massive event: Crew 303, Pack 303, Pack 374, Pack 496, Pack 585, Troop 362, Troop 375, and Troop 401. John handled the extra challenge of a large-scale project during the pandemic by dividing his volunteers into smaller, socially-distanced groups. He’d like to thank Home Depot, Jet’s Pizza, and the Indian Lakes HOA for sponsoring the project.
Great job, John!
Scouts from Princess Anne Troop 471 and Bayside Troop 1 teamed up to work on Wilderness First Aid in preparation for summer 2021 Philmont treks. Although the group size was small, the Scouts enjoyed a particularly theatrical portrayal of a leg trauma, and learned valuable skills along the way.
Race fans were cheering as Pack 125 and Pack 158 held their annual Pinewood Derbies. Congratulations Scouts and we hope to see your cars at the Albemarle District Pinewood Derby on March 6!
Scouts throughout the council participated in Scout Sunday, demonstrating reverence as well as thanking their chartering organizations for sponsoring their units.
Scouts and leaders from Princess Anne Troop 362 challenged themselves at APEX Entertainment Center. They conquered the ropes course and put their mini-golf skills to the test on the 18-hole indoor course.
Scouts from Princess Anne Troop 471 did a 20-Miler workup along the Virginia Capital Trail in preparation for an upcoming Philmont trek.
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