As you well know, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) have recently changed their guidelines within scouting to now include girls. Girls have always been allowed in the Venturing and Explorer programs under the BSA, but it wasn't until October of 2018 that girls were now officially part of the ranks within scouting.
In Port Townsend, Troop 1478 chartered and became the first BSA troop exclusively for girls. It's the first of it's kind in Jefferson County. They currently have 6 scouts ranging in age from 11-15 and several adult leaders. One of the most unique attributes of this group isn't that they are all girls, it's that they are 100% scout led. With guidance from their adult leaders, they plan and execute their own meetings and outings.
The troop recently went snow camping, which was a first for many of them. They quickly learned the techniques required when camping in 3-5 feet of snow and frigid temperatures. And just like many of us they learned what they would do differently next time for a more enjoyable experience. Just another life lesson … learning from our mistakes for improved outcomes in the future.
Currently the troop is looking forward to their next adventure; Camporee in Port Angeles the second week in April. During this adventure they will explore many different areas of pioneering while competing with other troops from the area.
In addition to camping, the troop has been learning fire safety and in a few weeks will be earning their Totin' Chip (learning the proper way to handle and behave around knives).
One of the hallmarks of scouting is community service. This troop will be helping with the annual Elks Easter Egg Hunt this Easter (April 21) at Chetzmoka Park. The troop will help to hide hundreds of eggs for the children, clean up, and keep the eggs away from seagulls.
Currently the troop is working to raise money to attend summer camp at Camp Pigott near Monroe, WA. They will have a week to work on merit badges and have lots of camping fun! However, it's going to cost approximately $1500 for the entire troop to attend. To help raise the funds, the troop is asking for your help by supporting them with their Egg My House Fundraiser. This fundraiser allows you to hire the scouts to come and hide plastic eggs filled with candy in your yard between 8-10 p.m. on the Saturday night before Easter.
Personally, I can't wait to hire them as I'd love the Easter Bunny help! I encourage you to hire them too! It's a great cause and you're helping the first ever troop of it's kind make history! Let's help these girls shine and meet their goals.
