For 107 years the Northern Lights council has been shaping the very fabric of North Dakota by fulfilling its mission of “instilling the values of the Scout Oath and Law in young people and helping them achieve their full potential”.
Young people join Scouting for the promise of adventure; camping, hiking, target shooting, stories around the campfire, and friendships that last forever. Scouting delivers adventure and character education through one of four programs; Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturing or Exploring. Cub Scouts is for boys in Kindergarten through Fifth Grade, Boy Scouts for boys ages eleven through seventeen, and Venturing and Exploring, the coed programs for young men and women ages fourteen through twenty. Young people join Scouting to engage in fun and adventure with their peers. The Boy Scouts of America provides an avenue to fulfilling that desire under the watchful eye of dedicated and trained adult leaders. There are 89 boys involved in Scouting under the direction of 20 adult volunteers in the area served by the Crookston United Way. These boys have earned 19 rank advancements.
Lori Wagner, executive director for the Crookston United Way, shares some of the knowledge and experience gained by the boys and girls in the programs. “They learn how to protect themselves from child abuse, drug abuse and learn the principles of personal safety,” said Wagner. “They provide over 200 hours in community service, learn “Leave No Trace” principles and understand the importance of resource stewardship. They also, learn the importance of a good diet; learn about the importance and engagement of regular exercise; participate in a flag ceremony; learn about basic first aid; hike with friends and family; learn about Constitutional Rights which I think are very important; learn utility safety, engage in family discussion about their faith and earn the religious emblem of their faith, elect leaders from among their peers; plan and execute a weekend outing.”
Scouting is an investment in the future of our community. The boys that you see here are the future tradesmen, scientists, businessmen, and parents. They are having fun, but fun with a purpose!
United Way funds are used to help recruit new members, recruit and train new leaders, and provide camping and outdoor opportunities for our young people. It costs a Scout $33 per year to join Scouting but It costs the Northern Lights Council over $250 per year to provide Scouting opportunities. The generous support from United Way of Crookston helps cover the gap. To join Scouting, call toll free 877-293-5011 or go to www.BeAScout.org.
