Vinton Scout Troop 235 leaders are on a mission to re-establish Cub Scout Pack 235 in the
Vinton area. According to Scout leader Steve Thrasher, Pack 235 was active for many years,
sponsored by Thrasher Memorial United Methodist Church. It was the catalyst for many families
from the Vinton area developing great family memories and friendships while providing public
service and fun activities that can influence youth for a lifetime. The Pack paused during COVID
and is now starting up again. The new Pack will be sponsored by Evangel Four Square Church
on Hardy Rd.
The recruitment effort got off to a great start on November 12 with an Open House at Evangel
Four Square. The event featured an inflatable BB Gun Range where instructors Heather and
Jason Moore taught gun safety rules and marksmanship skills to those attending the Open House.
House. (photos by Debbie Adams)
There was also a regular bouncy house, and a visit from the Vinton First Aid Crew, giving the
children a chance to explore the emergency rescue vehicle up close.
and allowed the children to explore their vehicle.
In addition to Heather Moore, who is a District Scout leader and Jason, who is scoutmaster of
Pack # 221 in Roanoke, other Scout leaders present included Steve Thrasher and Greg Leslie
from Troop # 235, Earnie Harris from Troop # 136, and Unit Commissioner Tim Wortman.
According to www.scouting.org, Cub Scouting is a foundational program that develops
character, citizenship, and physical fitness in young children. It emphasizes learning through
play, making education enjoyable while teaching practical skills.
Cub Scouts learn to work as a team, solve problems creatively, and develop a sense of civic duty
through community service. This approach helps children understand their role as responsible
citizens while having fun with their peers.
Scouting helps children and youth meet six essential needs for growth in our society: mentoring
(by adult leaders), lifelong learning, faith traditions, serving others (do a good turn daily and
recognize the needs of others), healthy living, and building character.
Cub Scout activities are diverse and engaging, designed to appeal to different interests and
learning styles. The program includes outdoor adventures like hiking, camping, swimming,
climbing, wildlife exploration, first aid, lifesaving, and nature exploration, which help children
develop an appreciation for the environment. Cub Scouts learn basic outdoor safety, “Leave No
Trace” principles, and how to navigate using maps and compasses.
Indoor activities focus on arts and crafts, science experiments, and educational games that
stimulate creativity and critical thinking. STEM activities in Cub Scouting include building
rockets, conducting science experiments, learning about technology, and exploring engineering
concepts through hands-on projects.
Cub Scouting focuses on the home and neighborhood. It helps Scouts strengthen connections to
their local communities, which in turn supports their growth and development.
According to the leaders, Cub Scouting is a great activity for boys and girls in grades K-5. New
Scouts can enter at any of these grade levels. You don’t have to start in kindergarten. The
programs generally follow a school year, but new scouts can start at any time during a year.
Learn more at the website www.scouting.org. You can also find information on Facebook pages
by searching Scouting America Cub Scout Pack 235 Vinton, VA or Scouting America Troop 235
Vinton, VA or Blue Ridge Mountains Council, Boy Scouts of America
