“EK” Electronic Knapsack – October 1, 2024

Table of Contents

Upcoming Events

Be Prepared text

Albemarle District Camporee

October 11-13

Theme Announced! This year’s Albemarle District Camporee theme is “Be Prepared,” where Scout skills will be taught and tested. Bring your A-game to the competition during this fun-filled weekend.

Scouts will be able to show off their cooking skills, campsite manners, leadership skills, and so much more. You won’t want to miss this Fall Camporee on October 11-13, 2024 at Maple Commerce Park in Barco, NC.

Cub Scout Family Camp

October 11-13

Cub Scout Family Camping Weekend is an opportunity to get away from the busy buzz of the city for the weekend and enjoy some time in the great outdoors at Pipsico Scout Reservation.

There will be a variety of activities to include things for nature enthusiasts, fishermen, marksmen (aspiring marksmen), water lovers, crafty folks, sports fans, and more.

Participants are invited to camp from Friday through Sunday, or any portion in between. Families are welcome to arrive on Friday to escape the city and set-up camp and relax (this makes Saturday easier). Likewise, after a day of activity on Saturday, participants are welcome to take it easy Saturday night and make their way home on Sunday.

Coin Collecting Merit Badge

Virginia Beach Coin Show
October 11-12

Join the Tidewater Coin Club for the Virginia Beach Coin Show at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.

Friday, October 11: 10 AM – 6 PM
Saturday, October 12: 9 AM – 5 PM

There will be a Coin Collecting merit badge program from 10 AM – noon on Saturday. Advanced registration is required; please contact Fran Ryan at fryan88f250@gmail.com or Eddie DeVault at eddiedevault911@gmail.com to reserve a spot.

2024 Albemarle District Cuboree Rocket Into Scouting Tidewater Council

Albemarle District Cuboree

October 25-27

This year’s Albemarle District Cuboree theme is Rocket Into Scouting, and we will be building and launching model rockets! There will also be a variety of STEM activities to include things for nature enthusiasts, fishermen, and more.

We have added a campsite decorating contest in the theme for our campsite-or-treat event (trunk-or treat style, only at the campsites) on Saturday evening. Cub Scouts and families are encouraged to wear a Scout-friendly costume for the evening.

Join us at Currituck County Rural Center to Rocket into Scouting!

Spook-O-Ree 2024 Three Rivers District

Three Rivers Spook-O-Ree

October 25-27

Are you prepared to have a spooktacular time? Then you have come to the right camporee!

This year, Three Rivers District of Tidewater Council promises to give you the fright of the season with the Spook-O-Ree Camporee. This camporee promises to be a great one. We ordered extra ghosts, and hunted down some zombies, all so that each Scout who attends can have a great time.

Three Rivers Cuboree

October 25-27

Spooky fun awaits Cub Scout families at the Three Rivers Cuboree at Izaak Walton League Park!

Join us for shooting sports, stomp rockets, pumpkin putting, a not-so-scary nature walk, trick-or-treating through Scout units, and more.

Patch for Princess Anne Field Day 2024 with pictures of a rocket, tents, campfire, Cub Scout logo, Venturing logo, and Scouts BSA logo

Princess Anne Field Event Weekend

October 25-27

Registration is now open for the 2024 Princess Anne Field Event Weekend!

New for 2024, this bigger and better field day event will include glow-in-the-dark archery and an escape room! New Scouts who joined this fall can launch their rockets!

Troops and crews are invited to kick-off their fantastic new year of Scouting by showing off their Scout Skills at learning stations geared toward Cub Scouts. 

  • Scouts BSA troops and Venturing crews can arrive Friday, October 25 at 6:00 PM to camp overnight.
  • Cub Scouts are invited to arrive at 12:00 PM on Saturday, October 26 for the field event. Stations begin at 1 PM. The event ends for Cub Scouts at 9:15 PM on Saturday.
  • New Scouts who joined this fall will have an opportunity to launch their rockets from 3:00-4:30 PM. Extra rockets can be purchased (while supplies last) for $15 each on the day of the event.
  • After the stations, dinner will be provided. Then, get ready for some fun at the campfire!
  • Arrows of Light (5th graders only) are invited to continue in an overnight campout Saturday night. A BALOO-trained leader and two-deep leadership is required for each unit with Arrow of Light Scouts attending. No unregistered parents are allowed to camp overnight, per Scouts BSA guidelines. Arrows of Light must camp with their dens. 

Scouts BSA troops, this is a great opportunity to show off your troop to the packs of Princess Anne. Cub Scouts get to see all the cool things that the troops do, and Arrows of Light get to visit troops to shop for their new home. Don’t miss out!

Cub Scouts and leaders with rockets in a park

Bayside Rocket Launching Party

October 26

Cub Scouts and their families are invited to launch their rockets and participate in a variety of fall outdoor activities at Bayside District’s Rocket Launching Party at Aragona Pembroke Little League Park on Saturday, October 26. Registration is free! (Rockets will be available for purchase.)

Troops are invited to attend to build relationships with local Cub Scout packs and to put their skills to use by leading an activity station. If interested, please email Wes Sherman at William.Sherman@scouting.org.

Fall Family camp 2024 Tidewater Council

Fall Festival Family Camp

November 1-3

Come out, participate in, and witness the true spirit of Scouting: Scouts teaching Scouts and experiencing all that Pipsico has to offer in a fun-filled, outdoor, adventure-packed fall weekend at “Spooky-STEM-Camp”!

There will be numerous general camp events that guests will have the opportunity to participate in, such as range and target sports, pumpkin contests, games, nature events, and handicrafts – just to name a few.

The Darden Gala, honoring Taylor Harrell

Darden Gala

November 2

Join us for the 2024 Darden Gala on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at the Westin Virginia Beach Town Center!

The Darden Gala is an annual fundraising event for Tidewater Council, Boy Scouts of America. Each year, Tidewater Council bestows the “Colgate W. Darden, Jr. Citizen Scouter of the Year Award” to a deserving individual who exemplifies public service in the community.

In 2024, we are pleased to honor Taylor Harrell as our Citizen Scouter of the Year. Taylor is the President of Southern Bank and Trust Company.

The Darden Gala will feature Monte Carlo games, live and silent auctions, live music, and heavy hors d’oeuvres.

Scouting for Blood Drive

November 6

Did you know that one donation of blood can save up to three lives? Or that every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood? Tidewater Council is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive through the Pint-Size Hero program. This program introduces youth to the components of blood and the importance of blood donation. Scouts have the opportunity to demonstrate leadership by recruiting blood donors, hosting drives, and engaging in the community.

WHEN:
Wednesday, November 6, 2024

WHERE:
Tidewater Council
Mary Jayne Breeden Council Service Center
1032 Heatherwood Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23455

TIME:
1-6 PM

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT:
There are two easy ways to schedule your appointment:
1. Visit redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code “TidewaterBSA” in the “Find a Blood Drive” field.
2. Make your appointment on the American Red Cross Blood Donor App.

CONTACT:
Nicole Moga
704-564-5565
Nmoga149@yahoo.com

Albemarle Merit Badge Weekend

November 8-10

Albemarle Merit Badge Weekend is an opportunity for all registered Scouts (ages 11+) and Scouters. Participants will be able to choose between one, two, or three merit badges to earn for the weekend. Some merit badges will be partials depending on time and requirements.

Keep an eye out for registration coming soon. This annual event is popular, and you won’t want to miss your chance to reserve your spot!

Merit Badge Counselors Needed

Calling all merit badge counselors! Come share your knowledge with the youth, our future leaders. This is an event you don’t want to miss!

Please contact Ray Bland at 252-312-4285 or raybee01@hotmail.com or Christina Raymer at christina.raymer@scouting.org to sign up today.

National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT)

November 8-10 and November 15-17

National Youth Leadership Training is an exciting, action-packed program designed for councils to provide youth members with leadership skills and experience they can use in their home troops and in other situations demanding leadership of self and others. Participants must attend both weekends.

The NYLT course centers around the concepts of what a leader must BE, what they must KNOW, and what they must DO. The key elements are then taught with a clear focus on HOW TO. The skills come alive during the week as the patrol goes on a Quest for the Meaning of Leadership. NYLT is a six-day course. Content is delivered in a troop and patrol outdoor setting with an emphasis on immediate application of learning in a fun environment. Interconnecting concepts and work processes are introduced early, built upon, and aided by the use of memory aids, which allows participants to understand and employ the leadership skills much faster.

Registration is now open!

Tidewater Veterans Day Parade

November 11

All Tidewater Council Cub Scout packs, Scouts BSA troops, Sea Scout ships, Exploring posts, and Venturing crews are invited to participate in the 2024 Tidewater Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront!

This year, the Veterans Day Parade will begin at 16th Street and Atlantic Avenue, and will proceed to the Tidewater Veterans Memorial on 19th Street across from the Virginia Beach Convention Center. Check-in and line-up begin at 8:00 AM with exact location to be determined. Scouts will get to see the entire parade and then step off as one of the last units in the lineup.

All units are requested to bring their American and unit flags. Scouts and leaders should be in uniform. Scouts are invited to remain for the 11:00 AM Memorial Service.

Register your unit to march in the parade and pre-order your patches no later than November 9, 2024. Registration is required, and a patch is available by pre-order only. 

Cub College

November 16

Save the date for Cub College: Saturday, November 16 at Tallwood High School in Virginia Beach!

New Cub Scout Families and Leaders (Participants)

Learn more about Cub Scouting, make new friends, and gain valuable resources to help your Scouts get the most from the program. Topics include Cub Scout program updates, enhancing den meetings and outings, crafting exciting pack programs and ceremonies, and learning about resources available to help you succeed. We will also offer First Aid/CPR/AED certification and Cub Scout Rangemaster training. Bring a notebook, pen, water bottle, and enthusiasm!

Experienced Cub Scout Leaders (Staff)

Help train the next generation of Cub Scouts and leaders. We need your experience and expertise to offer the best program. If interested in volunteering as Cub College staff, please contact Bill Lawrence at bill.lawrence2@scouting.org.

Youth Academies (Grades Pre-K - 5)

Forget finding a babysitter – bring the whole family for a fun-filled day of Scouting excitement!

Cub College is offering a mini-camp of engaging activities for Cub Scouts and their siblings. Activities include science, nature, Scoutcraft, games, crafts, songs and skits, and more. Many activities will meet requirements for advancement and STEM Nova awards.

  • Akela’s Academy: Grades 2 to 5 (Wolf, Bear, Webelos, Arrow of Light)
  • Dragon Academy: Grades Pre-K to 1 (Lions, Tigers, and younger siblings)

All youth attendees must be toilet-trained.

Shooting Sports Training: Rifle Instructor Course

November 16

The NRA Instructor Rifle Shooting course allows Instructor Candidates to demonstrate organizational and teaching skills via participation in practical exercises during the course, and to complete an instructor certification examination.

Scout Night with the Norfolk Admirals

December 15

Join the Scouts to cheer on the Norfolk Admirals as they take on the Cincinnati Cyclones!

Tickets are now available for $18 each at the Tidewater Council Scout Shop, 1032 Heatherwood Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23455 until December 13, or sold out. A portion of ticket sales supports local Scouting. Units purchasing tickets will be recognized on the video board.

The tickets purchased in the Scout Shop are actual tickets with assigned seats. If you are attending Scout Night with the Norfolk Admirals as a unit or with a group, please purchase the tickets together to ensure you are seated together.

Group of Scouts with skis and snowboards at Winterplace

Scout Day at Winterplace Ski Resort

January 26, 2025

The new year means winter weather and winter sports! For the third year in a row, Winterplace Ski Resort in Ghent, WV is offering a special winter sports program for Tidewater Council Scouts, leaders, family members, friends, and neighbors! No matter what Scouting program you’re a part of (Cub Scouting, Scouts BSA, Venturing, Exploring, Sea Scouting), this winter sports day is open to you!

Youth Scouts who register by January 3, 2025 are guaranteed an event patch. Youth Scouts registering after January 3 may receive a patch, as supplies last.

The package includes a full-day lift ticket, ski equipment rental, helmet rental, and a customized 90-minute group lesson – all for a discounted rate! There are optional add-ons available for meal vouchers and snowtubing (additional cost).

Lodging is not included in the package, but there are nearby facilities at Winterplace and the Summit Bechtel Reserve for group/unit lodging. For individuals and families, there are hotels in nearby Beckley, WV.

For members of Scouts BSA, the Winter Sports merit badge will also be offered in conjunction with this program. Scouts interested in earning this badge will need to participate in one of the discussion sessions held prior to the Scout Day, and must demonstrate their proficiency (skis/snowboard) on the slopes.

Please contact Mr. Mack Brunson (mack_brunson@yahoo.com) for more information on the event and to sign up for the merit badge.

Wood Badge logo

Wood Badge

May 2-4 and May 31-June 1

Registration for Wood Badge 2025 is now open!

Participating in Wood Badge will show you tips, tricks, and best practices for being an adult volunteer at any program level, whether you are a brand-new leader or have been leading for years. What’s more, though, is how it will change YOU. You will find yourself talking about team development and leadership tendencies at work, about managing conversations at home, and about what your personality tendencies are when interacting with others.

Wood Badge is the doorway, the start to learning about yourself and others, and the spark you will carry and instill in your Scouts. It will teach you how to lead from the perspective of the youth you serve.

Register now for Wood Badge and enter for a chance to win custom-made course swag! The earlier you are paid in full, the more chances you have to win! Prizes include an engraved nametag, a set of four coasters, and a travel mug, with a grand prize of a course jacket.

Chances to Win

  • Paid in full by December 31, 2024 = 4 tickets
  • Paid in full by February 1, 2025 = 2 tickets
  • Paid in full by March 15, 2025 = 1 ticket

Black Pug allows for a self-paced payment plan, and some loan and scholarship funds may be available.

For more information, contact Kate Sklat, Course Director, at 2025TWCWoodBadge@gmail.com.

Invention Convention Cub Scout Day Camp Coming June 2025 Stay Tuned

Cub Scout Day Camp

June 2025

Cub Scout day camp is a summer outdoor experience for Cub Scout youth. Staffed by a team of volunteers, day camp activities include sports and games, academics, STEM and science activities, nature exploration, crafts, marksmanship, and skits and songs. Each activity is challenging and age appropriate. Cub Scouts have the opportunity to try new things as they work on elective Cub Scouting Adventures.

Planning is already underway to provide your Cub Scouts with awesome experiences in 2025!

2025 Philmont Trek

June 19 - July 3, 2025

Save the date for Tidewater Council’s next Philmont trek in summer 2025! If interested in joining the council contingent or getting more information, contact Bill Lawrence at Bill.Lawrence2@scouting.org.

2026 National Jamboree logo. Scouting America Elevate 2026 National Jamboree

National Scout Jamboree

July 22-31, 2026

The next National Scout Jamboree will be held on July 22-31, 2026 at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in West Virginia! The National Scout Jamboree is a gathering of thousands of members of Scouting America from across the nation.

Start early in gauging interest in attending and planning fundraising so Scouts can take advantage of this unique opportunity. For assistance in planning unit fundraising, check out the popcorn sale or contact the district executive.

Reserve your spot for the adventure of a lifetime now with a $100 deposit!

News

Popcorn tins with slogan "We're Butter Together!"

Popcorn

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

Eight Things To Do in October
  1. Sign up to assist with delivery on Thursday, October 3.
  2. If your unit placed a “Re-Order,” sign up for a pickup time on Friday, October 4 or Saturday, October 5.
  3. Pay for the unit’s September order at Re-Order pickup or by Saturday, October 5 at 2 PM, whichever comes first.
  4. Submit the third military donation recognition by Wednesday, October 30.
  5. Place the unit’s final popcorn order by Wednesday, October 30.
  6. If planning to return any product, make the return no later than Wednesday, October 30.
  7. Make the final unit invoice payment by Wednesday, October 30 at 5 PM.
  8. Sell, sell, sell!
Getting Started

It is not too late for your unit to participate in the 2024 Popcorn Sale!

  • Conduct “take order” sales. Scouts can make personal sales to family, friends, and neighbors. Units have until October 30 to order the product needed to fill take orders, with delivery in mid-November. The sales flyer is available here, or contact the district executive for a sales kit.
  • Participate in online sales. The online sale is slated to continue until November 24. Product purchased online is shipped directly to the purchaser with free shipping. Units earn 30% commission on online sales, and do not have to handle product or logistics. Each Scout receives a unique Seller ID to ensure credit goes to the right unit.

Contact your District Popcorn Kernel for help getting started.

Resources

Did your unit miss Popcorn Training? You can view the recording on the Popcorn Sale webpage. Make sure to review the 2024 Popcorn Guide while you’re there too!

Do you need help with any aspect of the sale? We have a great team of District Popcorn Kernels who are here to help you! You can find their contact information here.

Scout Shop

Fall is an exciting time in Scouting, and the best way to enjoy all the activities is to be prepared. Besides uniforms, books, and awards, the Scout Shop has many extra items so you can be ready for your adventures.

Maroon hoodie with the BSA fleur-de-lis symbol in white
BSA Hoodies

New this month are BSA Hoodies! These maroon hoodies with the BSA fleur-de-lis symbol in white on the left shoulder are 50% cotton/50% polyester fleece. They are available in sizes adult small-2XL and sell for $44.99. What a comfortable way to stay warm and advertise Scouting!

NEW Swiss Army Knives

The Scout Shop has NEW Swiss Army knives, small and easy to carry. These translucent knives come in two styles:

  • Blue with the Cub Scout logo
  • Pink with the BSA fleur-de-lis logo

Both knives are seven-function, including a 2 ¼” knife blade, scissors, nail file with screwdriver, key ring, tweezers, and a toothpick. These knives are $27.99 and are nice gift ideas for those who can carry them, since they may be used for Scouting activities and daily tasks.

Cub Scout and BSA Swiss Army knives
Fall Uniform Sale

The Fall Uniform Sale continues through Saturday, November 2. Get a uniform shirt and bottoms (pants, shorts, or skorts) from the same program and get 20% off the bottoms. If you are buying for more than one Scout, the savings add up!

Help New Families Be Prepared

Leaders, we need your help! Frequently asked questions that the Scout Shop staff cannot answer on behalf of units include:

For Scouts BSA:

  • Which color of neckerchief do I buy?
  • Which patrol patch do I get?
  • What is my troop number?

For Cub Scouts:

  • Do I need a den number?
  • What is my pack number?

For Arrows of Light: New changes in the Cub Scout program have changed uniform requirements for most Arrow of Light dens. Many are either not using a neckerchief, or are choosing one of the Scout neckerchiefs and the solid green Scout cap.

Please help the families in your unit have a successful shopping experience, by informing them what they need before they come in to shop!

Shipping

Having a hard time getting to the Scout Shop? We are glad to ship orders by USPS. Just call us at 757-497-2688 or email polly.fugate@scouting.org or staci.vankirk@scouting.org. We can fill the order, calculate shipping, and call you back for a VISA, Mastercard, or Discover credit card number.

Scout Shop Hours

Our next special hours will be:

On Thursday, November 21, the Scout Shop will open late at 1 PM.

The Scout Shop will be closed on November 28-30 for Thanksgiving weekend.

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.

BSA SAFE Logo
Scouts First Helpline
 The protection of youth is the primary obligation of every individual involved in the Boy Scouts of America— including leaders, parents, members, and professionals. The BSA has been and will continue to be vigilant in creating barriers that help prevent abuse and educating those involved in Scouting to recognize and report child abuse regardless of where it occurs. As part of its “Scouts First” approach to the protection and safety of youth, the BSA has established 844-SCOUTS1 (844-726-8871), a dedicated 24-hour helpline to receive reports of known or suspected abuse or behavior that might put a youth at risk.

VFW Scholarship Opportunities

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Posts have scholarship opportunities for middle school and high school students. Visit vfw.org/community/youth-and-education for more details and entry forms.

For High School Students

High school students can enter the Voice of Democracy Essay Contest. The 2024-25 theme is: “Is America Today Our Forefathers’ Vision?”

The deadline to submit entries to a local VFW Post is October 31, 2024. The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship.

For Middle School Students

Middle school students can enter the Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest. The 2024-25 theme is: “My Voice in America’s Democracy?”

The deadline to submit entries to a local VFW Post is October 31, 2024. The national first place winner can win $5,000.

Submission

Students may submit their entries to a local VFW Post. For more information, please call your local VFW Post.

Posts in the Tidewater Council area include:

  • Post 10950 Outer Banks Post in Nags Head, NC
  • Post 7312 Gates County Memorial Post in Gatesville, NC
  • Post 6060 William Clarence Jackson Post in Elizabeth City, NC
  • Post 4809 Tidewater Post in Norfolk, VA
  • Post 3160 Ocean View Post in Norfolk, VA
  • Post 2894 SSG Jonathan K. Dozier Memorial Post in Chesapeake, VA
  • Post 1211 Back Bay Post in Virginia Beach, VA
  • Post 392 General MacArthur Memorial Post in Virginia Beach, VA

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. To that end, there are two proposals before the council:

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.

Potable Water

Working with the City of Chesapeake water department, tapping into an existing water line conveniently located just outside the camp entrance will bring viable potable water into the camp. City connection fees, trenching a water line to a meter and further on to end at a frost-free water spigot similar to those in use at Pipsico will run from $3,400 – $5,000.

What's Next?

To achieve the success of these projects, we are reaching out to you in Tidewater Council to either help fund in full or in part one or both of these projects. 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 mustangron@aol.com and Wes Parker at wparker@pipsicobsa.com.

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 Diamond Brand 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 BSA 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, any outstanding Scout or Scouter.

Program Ideas

October
  • Kids Music Day: October 4
    • Work on the Music or Bugling merit badges.
    • Share camp songs at a unit meeting or campout.
  • World Space Week: October 4-10
  • Frugal Fun Day: October 5
    • A Scout is thrifty. Discuss what it means to be thrifty.
    • Have Scouts brainstorm activities that are both frugal and fun – and then choose one for a unit, den, or patrol outing.
  • National Stop Bullying Day: October 9
    • The idea that a Scout should treat others as they want to be treated—a Scout is kind—is woven throughout the programs and literature of the Boy Scouts of America. When a Scout follows the principles of the Scout Oath and Scout Law, bullying and hazing situations should never occur.
    • Have youth watch the age and rank-appropriate Personal Safety Awareness videos.
    • Review and share the BSA’s Bullying Awareness resources with Scouts and families.
    • For adults, take Youth Protection Training.
    • Review the BSA’s Social Media Guidelines for valuable information on internet safety and youth protection when using social media.
  • National New Friends Day: October 19
    • Invite a friend to visit a Scout meeting or event.
    • Make a card or another gesture of friendship to new members in your Scout unit.
  • International Artist Day: October 25
November

Community Engagement

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.

Eagle Project Ideas: Seton House

Seton Youth Services, often known as Seton House, has opportunities for two ambitious Eagle Scout projects. Seton House is a youth shelter for boys and girls ages 9-18 who have faced extreme hardship at home or on the streets. They receive food, shelter, school supplies, and clothing there.

Community service projects are also available for units.

For more information, please contact Gene Hoffman at 757-469-0957 or gchoffman@aol.com.

Shed at Seton Youth Services in need of repair
Hurricane Helene Relief
Kempsville Presbyterian Church, the chartered organization for Pack 996 and Troop 996, is now a drop off center for relief aid for those affected by Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina.
 
Essential Items Needed:
  • Water
  • Baby diapers and wipes
  • Powdered formula
  • Powdered milk
  • Non-perishable food
  • Toiletries
  • Trash bags
  • Paper towels
  • Liquid soap
  • Hand sanitizer
Items may be dropped off at Kempsville Presbyterian Church’s weekday entrance off Locke Lane in Virginia Beach between 7 AM and 7 PM, now through Thursday, October 3.
 
For any questions, please email kim.soto@kpc.org or call the church office at 757 495-1913.
Trunk or Treat, Corn Maze, and Campfire with Troop 16B at Bergey's Barnyard

Friday, October 4
6:15 PM – 8:30 PM
Bergey’s Barnyard
2207 Mt. Pleasant Rd.
Chesapeake, VA 23322

Troop 16B invites all members of the Scouting family to join them for a fun and spooky night at Bergey’s Barnyard in Chesapeake. Admission is $20 per person and includes the corn maze, hay rides, petting zoo, campfire, s’mores, trunk or treat, and candy. Children 3 and under are free.

The Trunk or Treat will start at 6:30 PM. Families are encouraged to participate by decorating their car and bringing additional candy to share. All other activities are available until 8:30 PM. Costumes are encouraged.

Purchase tickets at the door, or pre-order online at troop16vb.com/store/bergeys2024.

Illustration of Scouts at a corn maze, trunk or treat, and petting zoo event

Volunteer Opportunities

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

We want to hear from you! Send stories, photos, and videos of your Scouts in action to alison.harrison@scouting.org (with parental permission, of course). 

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