The Scouter Digest Staff

When the mulch piled up, Scouts from Loudoun District were ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work—no bones about it!

Recently, the Loudoun County Animal Services facility found itself in a bind. Three large outdoor dog play areas—used daily for everything from socialization to enrichment—were scheduled for fresh mulch to help keep the pups happy and healthy. The mulch was delivered, but the volunteers originally lined up—high school seniors finishing their Capstone programs—had already wrapped up for the year.

Enter Life Scout Calvin J. of Troop 1907. While dropping off his own Eagle Scout project at the shelter, Calvin heard about the impending mulch mountain and gap in manpower. Without missing a beat, he stepped up, organized a SignUpGenius, and rallied fellow Scouts from Troops 1907, 1158G, and 996 to lend a hand.

On a hot and muggy Virginia morning (85°F with 1000% humidity!), Scouts grabbed shovels, rakes, and wheelbarrows and got to work. With teamwork and determination, they spread over 3,000 pounds of mulch across the three dog play areas—transforming them into safer, more comfortable spaces for the shelter’s canine companions.

Despite the heat, the Scouts kept spirits high, stayed hydrated, and even managed to have some fun along the way. Whether raking mulch or racing wheelbarrows, they proved that the Scouting Spirit is high in Loudoun District!

A big thank-you goes out to Calvin J. for taking initiative and to the Scouts and leaders from Troops 1907, 1158G, and 996 who showed that when animals need help, Loudoun Scouts are always ready to “dig in!”

For more LCAS Volunteering Opportunities please contact Amelia Monroe @ 571.233.1962

#ScoutingAmerica #ScoutingLoudoun #ServiceWithASmile #ScoutOn

On May 3, 2025, youth and families gathered at the Vienna Community Center for an afternoon of discovery at the Next Level Scouting Expo, an event designed to introduce others to Scouting’s older youth programs, including Venturing, Sea Scouts, and advanced leadership opportunities. Whether participating in challenges, connecting with other Scouts, or learning about programs, attendees got a firsthand look at how Scouting pushes limits and builds lifelong skills.

The event was packed with interactive activities and engaging conversations. With representation from over six districts, Crew 1345, Crew 612, Crew 617, Ship 1176, Ship 548, and others shared their experiences, helping youth explore new possibilities in high-adventure Scouting and maritime leadership.

Venturing, a co-ed program for ages 14–20, focuses on leadership, adventure, personal growth, and service. Venturers plan and lead their own activities, taking on challenges like rock climbing, scuba diving, wilderness survival, and special interests, all while developing leadership skills.

Sea Scouts, also open to ages 14–20, provides hands-on training in boating, navigation, and water safety. Members learn seamanship, advance through ranks, and gain valuable maritime experience while exploring careers in the nautical world. At the expo, they got an insight to all this program offers.

The National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) staff hosted a catapult contest, giving prospective participants a fun, interactive way to experience teamwork and problem-solving while learning about this council leadership training course for Scouts.

The National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience (NAYLE) booth connected attendees with a Summit Bechtel Reserve course director, offering leadership insights and exclusive Summit merchandise. Everyone walked away with sporks, hats, and something learned!

Attendees also learned about exciting opportunities for their units to participate in, including Phenomenon – an annual September regional event attended by troops, ships, and crews from over 3 states – and other high-adventure and leadership programs, helping them discover new ways to engage, grow, and explore within Scouting.

The NCAC Venturing Officers’ Association was also on hand, connecting with youth and sharing leadership opportunities youth can pursue at the council and territory level, as well as their responsibilities supporting the Venturing program. The Territory 12 Venturing Officers’ Association President was also in attendance!

Most importantly, the expo wasn’t just for current Scouts—it introduced new families to the adventure, leadership, and community that make Scouting such a transformative experience. By the end of the afternoon, youth left inspired, families left informed, and this event truly took Scouting to the next level!!

Even if you couldn’t make it to the Next Level Scouting Expo, you can still check out everything Venturing, Sea Scouts, and leadership programs have to offer. There are plenty of ways to get involved and take your Scouting journey further!