THE HISTORY of TROOP 1:
The Troop was the first boy scout troop chartered in Mahopac. Apart from the war years of World War II, this troop has been an active scout troop since the 1930’s.
Troop 1 had the honor of training the very first scout to earn the rank of Eagle in Mahopac. What is the rank of Eagle Scout and why is it an honor? Nationwide, less than 4% of scouts make it to the rank of Eagle Scout, which is the most recognized honor in Scouting.
SCOUTING WITH TROOP 1:
Regardless of scouting experience, all youth entering 6th grade, or are between the age 11-18, are welcome in Troop 1.
The Scouting experience challenges a scout to learn valuable life lessons, including leadership and life skills and the ability meet some physical challenges through troop activities, camping, merit badge classes, community service, and leadership via mentoring – first by being mentored, then by mentoring younger scouts.
Scouts can advance through the different ranks such as the ranks of: Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and ultimately Eagle – the rank recognized by community and business leaders. Once an Eagle Scout, you are always considered an Eagle, which is a lifelong honor.
TROOP ORGANIZATION:
Troop 1 is run by its own scouts using a method called the PATROL system, mentored by adult volunteers who support the troop. Free on-line training is offered by Scouting America for scouts in a variety of topics.
The Scout Master and Assistant Scout Masters are fully trained and certified in their positions and are also certified in Youth Protection. Adult volunteers are also required to take Youth Protection training, and all adult members undergo a background check.
ACTIVITIES:
Troop 1 has weekly meetings, monthly troop activities, merit badge classes and rank advancement training. The troop also has monthly campouts (from September through June) and participate in community events.
Some of the troop activities include two summer weeks of camping, usually one week in July and one week in August. At each camp, the scouts have an opportunity to earn merit badges in a variety of activities and attend rank advancement classes, but most importantly – they have fun!
THE SCOUTS' FAMILY:
Family is definitely not forgotten! The entire family is encouraged to attend the three Troop Courts of Honor which are held to award scouts with their earned merit badge(s) and / or rank advancement. There is also an annual family outing that everyone is welcome to attend for a white-water rafting trip held on Memorial Day weekend.