May 2026

A Message from our District Chair

Dear Scouting Families, Leaders, and Friends,


As we continue another exciting and impactful year of Scouting throughout Hunterdon County, I want to take a moment to recognize several outstanding individuals whose dedication and service continue to strengthen the Scouting movement within our community.


First, on behalf of the Hunterdon Arrowhead District and the entire Washington Crossing Council Scouting family, I would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Alice Hillary as she concludes her service as our District Executive. Alice has been a tremendous partner, advocate, and supporter over the last several months of Scouting in Hunterdon County. Her commitment to our youth, volunteers, and units has made a lasting difference, and we are deeply appreciative of all she has done to help grow and support Scouting across our District. We wish Alice continued success and happiness in her future endeavors.


Recently, we held our District Annual Meeting, which provided an opportunity to reflect on the tremendous accomplishments of our volunteers and leaders. During that meeting, we also recognized Art Dunn for his many years of dedicated service as our District Advancement Chair. Art’s commitment to helping Scouts achieve their goals and advance through the program has positively impacted countless young people and families throughout Hunterdon County. His leadership, guidance, and passion for Scouting have helped shape the lives of many future leaders, and we thank him sincerely for his remarkable service.


As we look ahead, I am pleased to welcome Ed Morris and Tracey Giannouris as our new District Co-Chairs for Advancement. Both Ed and Tracey bring tremendous experience, leadership, and dedication to Scouting, and we are excited to have them assisting our units, leaders, and Scouts in the years ahead. Their combined knowledge and passion for youth development will be an incredible asset to our District.


I also encourage everyone to attend our upcoming District Awards Program. This event is truly one of the highlights of the Scouting year — an evening dedicated to celebrating Scouting in Hunterdon County and recognizing the extraordinary leaders and volunteers who devote so much of their time, energy, and talents to positively impact the lives of our youth each and every day. I hope you will join us as we celebrate the spirit of Scouting and honor those who make our mission possible.


Finally, thank you to all of our volunteers, leaders, families, and supporters for your continued engagement in Scouting. Together, we are helping young people develop leadership skills, participate in meaningful community service, build character, and gain life experiences that will benefit them for years to come. The impact Scouting continues to make throughout Hunterdon County is extraordinary, and it only happens because of your dedication and support.


Yours in Scouting,

Christopher J. Phelan



District Chair

Hunterdon Arrowhead District

Scouting America Washington Crossing Council


P.S. Don’t forget to sign your unit up for Hunterdon County’s 250th Anniversary Parade on June 14! We want to see Scouts from throughout the County participate in this incredible celebration of America’s Birthday and proudly showcase the spirit of Scouting to our entire community.

Important Update

New Military Family National Fee Waiver Available Through Scouting America online!

Camp Staff Opportunities

Looking for a unique summer opportunity?


Serving on the Ockanickon Scout Reservation staff is the opportunity of a lifetime. It offers an unprecedented chance to lead, teach and work with over 1,500 Scouts from the region. Staff members get to work as part of our family at camp. 


Every staff member gets an opportunity to: 

• Apply the leadership skills they have learned through Scouting.  

• Be part of a team that enjoys bringing Scouting to others.  

• Make connections and friends that will last a lifetime. 

Positions available: 

• Aquatics Staff (Minimum age 15) 

• Aquatics Lake Director (Minimum age 18) 

• Aquatics Pool Director (Minimum age 18) 

• Aquatics Asst. Director (Minimum age 21) 

• Office Manager (Minimum age 18) 

• Dan Beard First-year Program (Minimum age 18) 

• Maintenance & Trades Staff (Minimum age 16) 

• Adventure Sports Asst. Director (Minimum age 21)

• Adventure Sports Staff (Minimum age 16)

• Civics Asst. Director (Minimum age 18)

• Civics Staff (Minimum age 15)

• Dining Hall Steward (Minimum age 16)

Popcorn 2026: Simple to Start, Strong Results

The 2026 Popcorn Sale is designed to be simple, effective, and worth your time. Units can earn up to 40% commission, with our average unit sale reaching $10,721. Even better, storefront locations are coordinated for you. Once you commit and set your unit goal, the Trail’s End team works to secure storefront opportunities in your area. All you have to do is claim them and sell.


This is one of the easiest ways to fund your entire Scouting year with minimal upfront work. Commit to the sale, enter your goal, and let the system start working for you.

Membership

Membership Mixer


Our next Mixer is scheduled for:

Date: June 30

Time: 7:30 - 9:00

Location: WCC Service Center - Board Rm.

1 Scout Way, Doylestown, PA from


This mixer is a great opportunity to immerse prospective coordinators. If you are searching for your unit's New Membership Coordinator (NMC) reach out to your District Membership Chair for guidance.

Silver Beaver Award

Thank a Volunteer!


The Silver Beaver is Scouting's award for distinguished service. Recipients of this award must be registered Scouters who have made an impact on the lives of youth through service given at the council level. All Scouters are encouraged to think of someone deserving of this honor. There will be an announcement and call for nominations this summer.

Cub Scout Day Camp

Summer Camp at OSR

Ockanickon Cub Nights

Cub Nights at camp celebrating America 250. These events are always a highlight of the season, providing fun, energy, and opportunities for our Brothers to engage with younger Scouts and share the spirit of the Order of the Arrow. 


Cub Night Dates:

● Patriot Bash - Thursday, July 2

● Colonial America - Thursday, July 9

● Wild Wild West - Thursday, July 16


Location:

Ockanickon Scout Reservation

America 250 Parade

In honor of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, the Hunterdon County community is coming together for a spectacular Sestercentennial Parade on Sunday, June 14. This historic event marks a once-in-a-generation celebration of our nation’s heritage, and all residents are invited to join in the festivities.


As part of this joyous occasion, the County of Hunterdon and the Hunterdon County Chamber of Commerce is extending a special invitation to every scout unit in Hunterdon County — including Cub Scouts, Scouts, and Explorers — to participate in the parade. Whether your unit would like to march together or showcase a creative float, we want to see our local Scouts front and center as we commemorate this milestone in American history.


“Scouting plays such an important role in building civic pride, leadership, and community spirit,” said Chris Phelan, Hunterdon Arrowhead District Chair. “We would be thrilled to have every Scout unit join us in this parade — walking together, sharing your traditions, and celebrating the values that make our country strong.”


Scout units interested in joining the parade are encouraged to:

  • March together as a group
  • Build and enter a themed float
  • Show your flags, banners, and colors
  • Represent your Pack, Troop, Crew, or Troop family with pride



Registration information and event details are available through the Hunterdon County Chamber of Commerce calendar (link below).



This community celebration promises fun for all ages! We look forward to seeing Hunterdon County’s Scouts take a leading role in honoring America’s 250th!

The Scout Marching Band wants YOU for America's 250th


Calling all Scout Musicians within the Hunterdon Arrowhead District! Celebrate the USA’s 250th Anniversary playing with the Scout Marching Band in Hunterdon County’s 250th Parade on Sunday, June 14. The parade will step off along Main Street, Flemington, at 2:00pm. 

 

The band is open to all Scouts within the District! All marching band instrumentalists are welcome! Trumpet - Trombone - Clarinet - Flute - Baritone - Sax - Oboe - French horn - Tuba -Percussion! Rehearsals are the first Wednesday and third Thursday evening of each month! 

 

Be part of one of the largest parades in New Jersey history! 


For more information, contact Band Director mark.j.dau@comcast.net or 908-619-6289

Service Weekends at OSR

Chainsaw Work Day

June 13

August 8

September 12

Campbuilder Day

June 20

September 19

Training Opportunities

Click links below for more details and to register:


  • Wood Badge - May 29-31 & June 13-14
  • BALOO - October 10-11 - registration is now open!
  • IOLS - October 10-11 - registration is now open!
  • BB & Archery Rangemaster - June 13
  • NYLT - November 6-8 & November 20-22 - registration is now open!

Council Events

Click links below for more details and to register:


Program Opportunities Beyond the District

Don't miss out on some great Scouting events beyond your District!


  • One World Observatory, NYC - offered Saturdays & Sundays at 9am
  • Philadelphia Zoo - May 24
  • Trenton Thunder - June 12
  • National Scout Jamboree - July 22-31
  • Design Like A Girl - July 22 & August 17
  • Trek Camp - August 16-21
  • 2027 World Scout Jamboree


For more information regarding these Events please refer to the Council newsletter.

Don't Miss Out

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Looking for a previous newsletter? Archives are now included on our Council website.

Annual Appeal

Supporting Hunterdon Arrowhead District helps our Scouts thrive!


Your support strengthens the programs, camps, training, and resources that give our Scouts the best possible experience—building confidence, leadership, and lifelong skills. When families support the Council, we ensure every Scout has the opportunity to grow, explore, and succeed.

Upcoming Meetings

Commissioner Meeting

June 1

District Committee Meeting

August 5

Roundtable

September 9