By Sue Wambolt, Contributing Writer
Westborough – Since its origin, the Scouting program has been an educational experience designed to build character, physical fitness, practical skills and service. In Westborough, Scouting has had a major impact on keeping the town green, supporting local organizations, and building community.
There are currently two Boy Scout troops chartered in Westborough, Troop 382 and Troop 100, and two Cub Scout packs, Pack 100 and Pack 33. Additionally, there are two Boy Scouts of America affiliated groups – the coed Venture Crew 100 (ages 14-20) and Explorer Post 85, a youth auxiliary to the Westborough Fire Department.
Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts participate in the Scouting for Food drive (dropping off collection bags all over town) and collect food for the Westborough Food Pantry. In addition, Scouts help build and maintain trails for the Westborough Community Land Trust and parks such as Walkup and the Veterans Park. Eagle Scout projects in town include building trails and creating gardens as well as cleaning and organizing rooms for theater and religious groups.
From Cub Scouts (ages 7 to 11) to Boy Scouts (ages 11 to 18), boys learn to follow and then to lead, as they grow within the Scouting framework – all the while forming and cultivating lifelong friendships.
Cub Scouting offers young boys the opportunity to work and play together. As Cub Scouts, boys learn leadership and participation, have fun and enriching experiences, and learn to take their place in the community. The Cub Scout motto is “Do My Best.” “Do My Duty,” and “Help Other People.”
“Raising boys to embrace these values is the mission of the Scouts,” said Wendy Zingher, membership chair of the Cub Scouts.
Cub Scouting encourages closeness to family, offering a positive way for father and son to grow closer together. Siblings and parents are encouraged to participate in the Scout's signature event, the Pinewood Derby. Other activities, such as overnight camp outs, tubing and visits to the police and fire departments, offer opportunities for fathers and sons to spend quality time together.
Local Cub Scout leaders are looking for future Scouts who would like to participate in activities such as setting up a tent, building a birdhouse, hiking, or cooking over a campfire while earning rewards.
Anyone interested in learning more about the Cub Scout program is invited to attend an informational meeting Thursday, May 8, from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Elsie A. Hastings School, 111 E. Main St. Any Cub Scout who signs up will be able to march in Westborough's Memorial Day Parade May 30.
For more information on Cub Scout Pack 33, contact Zingher at [email protected] or 508-616-4499. For information on Pack 100, contact Cub Master Curtis Bramley at [email protected]?or?508-561-0758
For more information on the Boy Scout program, visit www.troop100.org or?http://troop382westborough.org.