Boy Scouting is More Than Just Community Service

You would be amazed at how many people have absolutley no idea what the Boy Scouts do for the community. 

Yes, most people remember occasionally seeing the local Boy Scouts out in the community either performing some type of community service project or marching in a parade, but, when it comes to really truly understanding what those boys are getting out of scouting they simply have no idea. 

We are sponsored by the Hampton Bays Methodist Church, but that doesn't mean that we are a church group, our scouts can belong to any faith such as Methodist, Protestant, Catholic, Episcopal, Lutheran, Jewish, Muslim, etc., you name it.  The Boy Scouts are a non-denominational group. We encourage Scouts to practice their religion to help build moral values and character.

The Boy Scouts also play sports and have competitions, but we are not a sports centered organization.  Sports and competitions are a great way to foster comradre, scout spirit and teamwork.

Outdoor adventure is the hallmark of Boy Scouting. Boys yearn for outdoor programs that stir their imagination and interest. In the outdoors, boys have opportunities to acquire skills that make them more self-reliant. They can explore canoe and hiking trails and complete challenges they first thought were beyond their ability. Attributes of good character become part of a boy as he learns to cooperate to meet outdoor challenges that may include extreme weather, difficult trails and portages, and dealing with nature’s unexpected circumstances.  Scouts plan and carry out activities with thoughtful guidance from their Scoutmaster and other adult leaders.

Good youth leadership, communication, and teamwork enable them to achieve goals they have set for themselves, their patrol and their troop.  Learning by doing is a hallmark of scoutings outdoor education.  Unit meetings offer information and knowledge used on outdoor adventures each month throughout the year. A leader may describe and demonstrate a Scouting skill at a meeting, but the way Scouts truly learn outdoor skills is to do it themselves on troop outings. 

Scouting uses the patrol method to teach skills and values. Scouts elect their own patrol leader and they learn quickly that by working together and sharing duties, the patrol can accomplish far more than any of its members could do alone. The patrol succeeds when every member of the patrol succeeds and Scouts learn that good teamwork is the key to success.  Exercise and fitness is part of the outdoor experience. As Scouts hike, paddle, climb, bike, or ride, their muscles become toned and their aerobic capacity increases. When they work as a patrol to plan menus for their outings, they learn to purchase cost-effective ingredients to cook flavorful and nutritious meals.

Service to others and good citizenship is learned through such outdoor activities as conservation projects, collecting food, building trails and shelters, and conducting community service projects that promote healthy living.

Through helping other people, Scouts learn to appreciate how they can share themselves and their blessings to those in need. By giving service to benefit others, Scouts gain a sense of personal satisfaction. 

When they return home from an outing and realize what they have just accomplished they can't help but smile.  Living off the grid without any computer games, cell phones, or internet.  Taking care of themselves, being self relient and bringing home many great memories.  Where else but the Boy Scouts can young men learn these experiences and life skills first hand now days.

If you would like to learn more about our Hampton Bays Boy Scout Troop and how you can join in the adventure send us an email at troop483@optimum.net