Prominent African American civic organization launches new Scouting unit, plus other news in Scouting this week

Students at Bruce Elementary in Macon, Georgia, are participating in a new mentorship program led by the 100 Black Men of America organization from Atlanta, Ga., which is starting a Cub Scout pack to provide guidance, particularly for younger boys.

Terry Basley, a father of eight and a member of 100 Black Men, is excited to be a troop leader, emphasizing the importance of positive role models.

The program, aimed at boys who may lack father figures, offers mentorship through Scouting, teaching life skills and community service.

“A lot of the kids don’t have the background of having a father in the household,” he said. “We’re just someone positive they can look up to, someone they can see every day.”

Daniel Morgan and Nnamdi Onyekwuluje, Eagle Scouts, are leading the initiative. They aim to fill the remaining spots in the pack and expand the program to other local schools.

Learn more about this story from the 13 WMAZ website or the video below.

Scouts help the visually impaired experience canoeing

Scouts in Big Bend, Wisconsin, recently partnered with the Blind Outdoor Leisure Development (BOLD) group to help visually impaired community members enjoy a canoeing trip on the Fox River.

The Scouts assisted about two dozen participants, offering them the chance to experience the tranquility of being out on the water. The event, which has been held for over 40 years, saw its biggest turnout yet, with additional support from Muskego and Mukwonago troops.

Scoutmaster Chris Abraham mentioned that the Scouts eagerly anticipate this event each year. Participants also look forward to the event. Jenny Marchewka, who was canoeing for the second time, expressed gratitude for the kindness of the guides and the adventure opportunities.

“It’s just nice to be out on the water,” Marchewka said. “They’re so kind and nice, all of the guides are wonderful.”

Learn more about this story from the WTMJ-TV website or the video below.

Eagle Scout brings stress-free enrichment center to cat shelter

Eagle Scout Quinnlan Kittson recently completed an animal enrichment center project for the Franklin County Animal Rescue in St. Albans, Vermont.

The center provides play and relaxation spaces for 14 shelter cats, reducing stress and helping staff with daily tasks.

This project, which took months of planning and involved community support, showcases Quinnlan’s dedication to service, shaped by his years in Scouting and a lifesaving experience that earned him a national award. He hopes to apply the leadership skills he gained through Scouting in his future career.

Read more about this story from the Saint Albans Messenger website.


About Sheniece Chappell 55 Articles
Sheniece Chappell is an associate editor of Scout Life and Scouting magazines.