Joining a scout troop is more than just an after-school activity. It’s a chance to grow, learn, and lead in ways that shape your future. When I first discovered the world of scouting, I was amazed at how much it offered beyond camping and badges. Troop 161 Sturbridge is a fantastic place where boys aged 11-18 can dive into exciting adventures while building strong character and leadership skills. Let me take you on a journey through the amazing opportunities waiting for you!

If you’re looking for a way to dive into adventure, build leadership skills, and make lifelong friends, scouting is an incredible path to explore. I’ve seen firsthand how being part of a troop can transform a young person’s life. In Sturbridge, there’s a fantastic group that’s all about empowering boys aged 11-18 to grow into confident, ethical leaders. Let me take you on a journey through the exciting opportunities waiting with Troop 161! Why Scouting Opportunities in Sturbr

Each year in January, Scouts across the country pause to honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This day is more than a break from school—it is a time to remember a leader who stood for equality, service, courage, and peace, values that closely match the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Who Was Martin Luther King Jr.? Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a civil rights leader who believed that change should come through nonviolence, respect, and perseverance. He worked to ensure that all peop

Scout Sunday is a special opportunity to celebrate the values shared by Scouting and faith communities. Observed by many congregations each year, Scout Sunday recognizes the role Scouting plays in building character, leadership, and service-minded youth. With a little preparation, the day can be meaningful, respectful, and inspiring for everyone involved. What Is Scout Sunday? Scout Sunday is a designated day when Scouts participate in a worship service to highlight the princ

When I think about leadership, I picture a journey filled with challenges, growth, and exciting adventures. That’s exactly what scouting offers! Being part of a troop is more than just camping and earning badges. It’s about building leadership skills that last a lifetime. Today, I want to share how scouting, especially with troop 161 sturbridge , helps boys aged 11-18 develop into confident, responsible leaders ready to take on the world. Why Scouting Leadership Skills Matte

Cold Weather Adventures Done Right Winter camping can be one of the most exciting experiences in Scouting. Snowy landscapes, quiet forests, and crackling campfires make cold-weather trips unforgettable. But winter camping also requires extra preparation, teamwork, and smart decision-making. This guide covers the basics every Scout should know before heading out into the cold. --- 1. Plan Ahead (More Than Usual!) Winter camping is not the time to “wing it.” Check the weather

I like scouting because, it is a time for me to do things I thought I would not do and would not like. In the end I loved them! A year later I asked a friend to join because I thought they would love it because it’s very outdoorsy. I join Cups Scouts and did 4 years of Cup Scouts. Then now this is my 4th year of Boy Scouts -Caleb Lara Edited and Posted by Talon Silvia

When I think about what makes a great leader, I picture someone who is confident, responsible, and ready to face challenges head-on. That’s exactly what boys learn when they join Troop 161 in Sturbridge. This troop is not just about camping and fun adventures; it’s a place where young boys aged 11-18 grow into strong leaders by living the Scout Oath and Law every day. Let me take you on a journey through how this troop builds leadership and essential life skills that last a l

I’ve been in scouting for about as long as I can remember, starting all the way back as a tiger in cub scouts up until the present day where I find myself in my 11th year of the program as a Life Scout, working towards Eagle. It would be an understatement to say that I’ve changed during those years, yet Scouting has been a constant in my life. I can tell you that that is no coincidence, and rather is a reflection of the merits of the program, of which there are numerous. Ther

Scouting has been a huge part of my life. I’ve made a ton of friends and taken on roles like Patrol Leader, Troop Guide, and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, which taught me a lot about leadership and stepping up when it matters. I’ve also gotten to do things I never would’ve experienced without scouting, like camping, cooking outdoors, backpacking, and going on amazing high-adventure trips. Those adventures are some of my favorite memories. Right now I’m a Life Scout, working

I’m TJ Blow. I joined scouting in roughly the spring of 2022, but I was a Cub Scout for most of my life before that. I am currently star rank, one of the higher ranks in scouting. I feel scouting is super fun and would definitely recommend it to a friend. I actually did before, and I have a special patch to show for it. By TJ Blow Edited and Posted by Talon Silvia

Podcasts are a great way for Scouts to learn new skills, hear real Scouting stories, and stay inspired—whether you’re riding in the car, doing chores, or relaxing after a long day. If you’re a Boy Scout (or a Scout leader or parent), here are some of the best podcasts made just for the Scouting community. 🏕️ Official Scouting Podcasts CubCast & ScoutCast These podcasts are produced by Scouting America and are packed with helpful information. They talk about upcoming program

Form the start of 2025 to the end we had so much fun from campouts, hikes, projects, ect. I had collect from leaders and scouts of what they like form the whole year. > Name: Caleb Lara > The Flags on The 48 is my first favorite because it is a time to view the nature of the get go’s of New England, you also get to really remember the people who died on the tragic 9/11 attacks. My second all time favorite is White Water rafting in a town people have never heard of but us. I l

By David Foote Edited by Talon Silvia When my son first crossed over from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts, I honestly had no idea what to expect. He had only been in Cub Scouts for about a year and a half, and moving into Troop 161 was a completely different experience. At that time, Troop 161 looked very different than it does today. There were maybe a dozen boys total. Many of them were older Scouts, and while they had fun, there was also a lot of mischief. Some of the younger Sco

The New Year is a time when people think about what happened last year and what they want to do better in the next one. For Scouts, the New Year isn’t just about staying up late or watching fireworks — it’s about starting fresh and getting ready for new adventures. Thinking About Last Year When I look back on the past year in Scouting, I think about campouts, meetings, and the things I learned along the way. Some things were easy, like hanging out with friends, and some thin

Text by DAVID FOOTE Edited by TALON SILVIA

Christmas and New Year are some of the best times of the year! There are lights everywhere, people are happier, and Scouts get to help out in the community. But while the holidays are fun, they can also be busy—and sometimes accidents happen. That’s why first aid is super important for Scouts, especially during the Christmas season and going into the New Year. As a Scout, learning first aid isn’t just about earning a rank or merit badge. It’s about being ready to help someone

Being a Scout isn’t just about camping, knots, and uniforms — it’s also about becoming a stronger, kinder, more confident version of yourself. One of the best (and most underrated) ways to grow is simple: talking to other Scouts. Whether you’re around a campfire, at a meeting, or hiking a trail together, those conversations can actually make you a better person. Here’s how: --- 1. You Learn From Their Experiences Every Scout has a story — their first campout, a badge they st

Hey Scouts and friends! So, I’ve been thinking… What's the best gift a Scout could ever get? And honestly, it’s not always the shiny badges or fancy camping gear (though, don’t get me wrong, those are awesome ). The best gift is something that makes your Scout life better, more fun, or helps you help others. Here’s my list of the ultimate Scout gifts: 1. A New Pocketknife or Multi-Tool Every Scout needs one. Perfect for campouts, projects, or just showing off skills you learn

November 21–23 Scoutsgiving is one of the most meaningful weekends of the year. From November 21st to 23rd, Scouts came together to celebrate community, service, leadership, and thankfulness. It’s more than just a campout—it’s a reminder of why Scouting matters and how much stronger we are when we work together. The Spirit of Scoutsgiving This weekend blends traditions of Thanksgiving with the values of Scouting. It’s a time to look back at what we’re grateful for: our leade