Welcome to Troop 87
Troop 87 is an active organization focused on providing a variety of opportunities and experiences to our scouts. We are focused on building young leaders that are of good character, have a strong work ethic and a desire to help others. We accomplish this through productive weekly meetings, exciting outdoor trips, participation in BSA events and meaningful community service projects.
Why is Scouting important in the life of a young person?
As we look across the range of worthwhile programs in which a child can choose to participate, Scouting stands out in that it is values-based and Scout-led. Scouting instills scouts with the fundamental values of duty to god, duty to county and duty to self. While many organizations can help your child learn skills, teamwork, and confidence, Scouting helps mature them in the basic principles that will serve as a strong foundation for every decision they make for the rest of their life.
‘Scout-led' is learning how to plan, prepare, and lead. The Troop is organized and run by the scouts through the “patrol method,” with trained adult supervision. Scouts are not simply ‘included’ in the program activities; rather, they plan, prepare, and lead every activity. The method is not easy and requires supportive parents and adults. It is often hard to watch scouts wait until the last minute to prepare and we fight the urge to ease their struggle as they face a new task. However, it is through the process of doing that they grasp the enduring lessons of leadership.
As an adult volunteer, it is also a rare opportunity for parents to be able to participate in extra curricular activities with their child. Going on campouts, hikes, canoe trips , sharing your interests or skills through merit badge counseling and more are gifts of core memories to build with your child with the support of your Scouting community.
What is the Scoutmaster’s job?
The Scoutmaster sees to it that the Troop does its best to deliver the promise of Scouting and works to instill the scouts with the foundation to make ethical and moral choices by upholding the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law. The Scoutmaster guides the scouts along their journey of Scouting, mentoring them in their leadership positions, and works with the Assistant Scoutmasters (ASMs) and Troop Committee to make sure that the Troop provides them with the best opportunities to learn scouting’s lessons.
What is the parents’ job?
The running of a Troop is a shared task in order to provide the best possible program. Committee meetings are once a month to discuss the program and support any plans the scouts have made for the coming weeks.
The Scout-led Troop comes with the price of not having everything run the way adults would run it. The scouts lead while adults help them balance meetings to have a fun, productive, learning experience.
Explore the Parent's Page in the Menu for more ideas on how you may have a supportive role in the Troop in a way that is manageable for you. Every contribution strengthens the program experience.
On behalf of Troop 87, we would like to thank you for taking the time to learn about us and thanks for trusting us with the guidance of your scout!