We Own Adventure

Scouting News for the DC Metro Area

Archives for April 2026

Scouting C.A.R.E.S. Pack 5600 Explores Great Falls National Park

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Scouting C.A.R.E.S. Pack 5600 from E.W. Stokes Elementary School recently visited Great Falls National Park for a day of hands-on learning and outdoor exploration. The experience gave students the opportunity to connect classroom concepts with the natural world through guided activities and outdoor engagement.

During the visit, students participated in the park’s Flower Adventure Program, where they learned about native and invasive flowers found in the local environment. In addition to the educational programming, students enjoyed fishing and took part in field games, making the day both informative and fun. The trip provided a meaningful setting for students to build teamwork and confidence while developing a deeper appreciation for nature. By experiencing learning outside the classroom, students were able to see real-world applications of what they study and strengthen connections with their peers.

What Is Scouting C.A.R.E.S.?

Scouting C.A.R.E.S.—which stands for Character, Achievement, Respect, Education, and STEM—is an initiative of the National Capital Area Council designed to expand access to Scouting for all youth. The program partners with schools and community organizations across the DMV to bring hands-on, character-based Scouting experiences to communities that would benefit from a vibrant Scouting program. Through Scouting C.A.R.E.S., youth participate in programs that emphasize character development, leadership, ethics, and moral values, while fostering curiosity, resilience, and a sense of belonging. The initiative reflects the diversity of the communities it serves and works to ensure Scouting is inclusive and available to all young people, regardless of background or circumstance. Scouting C.A.R.E.S. provides in-school, afterschool, and community-based outreach programming led by positive adult role models. Youth enrolled in the program enjoy the same Scouting experiences as Scouts throughout the Council, including outdoor opportunities such as Day Camp and Resident Camp.

To learn more about our National Capital Area Council’s Scouting C.A.R.E.S. program, visit NCAC’s website: https://ncacscouting.org/scouting-cares/

               

America250 in Action: Building Informed Citizens with Troop 1107 at the U.S. Capitol

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Scouts from Troops 1107B and 1107G had the opportunity to see the government in action during a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building, facilitated by the staff of Rep. James Walkinshaw (VA-11) as part of the Citizenship in the Nation Merit Badge. The tour was held on April 21, as many scouts had the day off for the state’s special election.

Led by Scoutmaster and Merit Badge Counselor James Dreier, the scouts visited the Old Supreme Court Chamber, the Old Senate Chamber, the crypt and several other locations inside the Capitol Building.

Walkinshaw’s office presented the scouts with passes to the House of Representatives gallery to have the experience of watching a debate on bills as they unfolded on the floor of the lower chamber.

In all, more than two dozen scouts, scouters, and parents were able to take part in the tour.

Troop 1107 B and Troop 1107G are chartered by St. John’s Lutheran Church, 5952 Franconia Road, Alexandria, VA. In addition to the troops, the church also charters Pack 867, Crew 80 and is the meeting place for the Order of the Arrow – Accotink Bay Chapter.

For more information on the units, email troop1107ncac@gmail.com.

   

Pack 55 Scouts Celebrate America250 with History, Service, and Honor

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In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, Cub Scouts from Pack 55 in Great Falls, Virginia took part in a meaningful outing focused on history, citizenship, and service at the Balls Bluff Battlefield. Through hiking, learning flag etiquette, and honoring fallen soldiers, the Scouts experienced an important piece of American history while living out the values of Scouting.

Cub Scouts from Pack 55 explored the Balls Bluff Battlefield, a historic Civil War site with wooded trails and views of the Potomac River in Leesburg, Virginia. As they hiked together, Scouts enjoyed being outdoors, moving along the winding paths, and experiencing the natural setting of the battlefield. The hike gave Scouts a chance to stay active, work together, and appreciate being outside while visiting a place that has been part of American history for generations.

Scouts also learned about the Civil War from representatives of the Friends of the Balls Bluff Battlefield, who shared information about the site and its importance. Hearing from local experts helped Scouts better understand why the battlefield is preserved today and how communities work to protect historic places.

A meaningful part of the visit included learning proper flag etiquette and placing American flags at the Balls Bluff National Cemetery. This respectful activity allowed Scouts to honor the soldiers buried there and recognize the service and sacrifice of those who fought for the country. Taking time to place flags gave Scouts a hands-on way to show respect and gratitude.

The activities reflect key elements of the Scout Oath and Scout Law. By learning about history and honoring those who served, the Scouts demonstrated being respectful, reverent, and helpful. Working together throughout the outing showed cooperation and kindness, while caring for a historic site reflected responsibility and citizenship.

This experience also connects to the spirit of America250, which encourages reflection on the nation’s history and the people who shaped it. By visiting a historic battlefield and honoring soldiers from the past, Pack 55 Scouts participated in remembering America’s story while building their own understanding of service and community.

Way to go, Pack 55 Scouts!