Western District, CRC BSA

06/18/2026

Great to see our Cub Scout Webelos learning about knife safety and practice whittling by creating different things out of a bar of soap!
Outstanding!
Cub Scout Pack 467!

06/10/2026

Scouting America today announced a new five-year partnership with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) aimed at advancing the development of America’s next generation STEM workforce through immersive, hands-on educational experiences. This collaboration will connect young people across the country with real-world learning opportunities centered on space exploration, aeronautics, and STEM: science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Through this partnership, NASA will support Scouting America’s national and local programming efforts, helping to create engaging, mission-aligned educational experiences that introduce youth to cutting-edge STEM concepts and future career pathways. Programs will emphasize experiential learning, allowing Scouts to explore topics such as engineering design, robotics, space science, and Earth systems through interactive activities inspired by NASA’s missions.

“Scouting America has always been committed to preparing young people for life by fostering curiosity, leadership, and problem-solving,” said Roger Krone, president and CEO of Scouting America. “Partnering with NASA elevates this mission by providing unparalleled access to the wonders of space exploration and the science behind it. Together, we are inspiring the innovators and explorers of tomorrow.”

As part of the collaboration, Scouting America will integrate NASA-themed content and expertise into its programs, including merit badge curricula, learning modules, and special events. Local councils will have opportunities to engage with NASA centers, scientists, and engineers, bringing authentic STEM experiences directly to communities nationwide.

This isn’t the first time Scouting America and NASA have worked together. The agencies also collaborated to support the Artemis II program by using its missions as a powerful platform for youth education and inspiration. By connecting young people to NASA’s goal of returning humans to the Moon and eventually traveling to Mars, Scouting America is helping inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers while reinforcing its broader mission of character development and leadership.

The partnership will roll out in phases over the coming year, with pilot programs launching in select regions and expanding nationwide. Together, Scouting America and NASA aim to ignite curiosity, strengthen STEM competencies, and open doors to future opportunities for millions of young people across the United States.

Read the full press release 👇

https://finance.yahoo.com/sectors/technology/articles/scouting-america-announces-strategic-partnership-100000149.html

06/09/2026

Our thanks to Connecticut Rivers Council President Bill Shea for serving as keynote speaker at our Western District Adult Recognition Dinner .

06/09/2026

Good food and fellowship tonight! Thank you to everyone who attended tonight's Western District Adult Leader Recognition Dinner! Here is a link to photos:

Shared album · Tap to view!

06/08/2026

From the monthly Commissioner newsletter...

Q. “I am the Cubmaster of a pack whose membership has been decreasing each year. What are
some things we can do this summer to help attract new youth members before meetings
resume in the fall?”
A. One of the best things a pack can do is remember that recruiting is not just a single fall event.
Strong packs recruit year-round, and summer is actually one of the best opportunities to build
excitement and visibility in the community.
As a unit commissioner, here are several things I would encourage your pack to focus on this
summer:
Keep the pack active and visible - Families join active packs. Even if regular meetings are
paused, continue offering fun summer activities such as
• Ice cream socials
• Fishing days
• Bike rides
• Hiking outings
• Raingutter regattas
• Outdoor movie nights
• Service projects
• Parade participation
Invite non-Scout families to every activity. Summer events are low-pressure opportunities for
families to experience Cub Scouting before committing.
Encourage every Scout to bring a friend - The most effective recruiting tool is still a happy Scout
inviting a friend. Challenge each Cub Scout to bring one friend to a summer event or fall kickoff
activity. Parents are much more comfortable joining when their child already knows someone • Connect with elementary school principals
• Ask about back-to-school events or open houses
• Request flyer distribution approval
• Offer to help at school events or community nights
Packs that are visible in schools tend to recruit more effectively in the fall.
Improve your online presence - Many parents will search online before attending an event so
make sure:
• Your page is active and current
• Photos show fun, active programming
• Meeting dates and contact information are easy to find
• Leaders respond quickly to inquiries
Families want to see smiling kids, outdoor activities, and engaged leaders.
Plan an exciting fall kickoff now - Do not wait until August. Start planning your fall recruitment
event during the summer. The best recruiting nights are activity-based, not information-heavy.
Think:
• Rocket launches
• Water games
• Pinewood derby demos
• STEM activities
• Camping themes
Make it fun first. The paperwork comes second.
Focus on family experience and retention - Recruiting matters, but retention matters even
more. Families stay when:
• Meetings are organized
• Communication is clear
• New parents feel welcomed
• Advancement is fun, not stressful
• Leaders create a positive environment
Sometimes the fastest way to grow is simply keeping the families you already have.
Ask your district membership team for help - Your district and council likely have:
• Yard signs
• Flyers
• Bacon
• Peer-to-peer recruiting resources • Social media graphics
• School night support
• New member incentives
You do not have to do this alone.
Most importantly, remember that families today are looking for exactly what Cub Scouting
provides: friendships, outdoor fun, leadership, confidence, and family connection. Packs that
create a welcoming, energetic environment will grow.

06/07/2026

If you got a duck to support Camp4All check out below:

06/04/2026

🎣 Thank You, Colchester Fish & Game Club! ⚜️

The Connecticut Rivers Council, Scouting America is proud to recognize the Colchester Fish & Game Club for joining our Hooked on Scouting Membership Campaign as a First Cast Sponsor!

Their support helps us introduce more young people to the outdoors through fishing, conservation education, camping, and hands-on outdoor adventures. Through Hooked on Scouting, every new Cub Scout will have the opportunity to receive a fishing pole and discover the lifelong lessons that come from spending time outdoors.

Organizations like Colchester Fish & Game Club understand that today's youth need opportunities to connect with nature, learn stewardship of our natural resources, and develop the confidence that comes from outdoor experiences.

Thank you for helping us ensure that more youth can experience the adventure, friendship, and life-changing opportunities that Scouting provides.

Please join us in thanking the Colchester Fish & Game Club for investing in the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts and conservation-minded citizens!

🎣🐟🏕️