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As a reminder, all adult leaders in PA Units must have a current copy of their PA Clearances on file at the Council office. Reports are valid for five years from the date on the report. WCC is required to “suspend” registrations for leaders with expired clearances until a current report is received in order to be in compliance with PA-15.
If you know your clearances are about to expire, you can access the necessary links to renew them at https://www.wccscouting.org/pa-act-15.
Unit Key 3 members should remind new Leaders who are registering through the online portal to submit their clearances prior to registering. If clearances are not received, the new Leaders registration will be suspended until clearances are received.
If you have questions regarding the status of your clearances please contact our Registrar, Anna Marie Pepper.
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Membership Rally
Join fellow Scouting volunteers for an evening focused on building successful recruitment campaigns for Cub Scout programs. This rally will cover community marketing strategies, school and event recruitment, presentation techniques, Joining Night structure, and methods to improve family engagement and retention.
Date: August 20
Time: 7:00 - 8:30
Location: TBD
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Membership Mixer Recap
Tech Talk
From Post to Parent: Building a Simple Recruiting System
Our recent Membership Mixer looked at how units can turn recruiting ideas into a simple, repeatable system. Rather than relying on a single flyer, Facebook post, or word-of-mouth invitation, the session walked through how to connect each step of the process: helping families find the unit, giving them one clear action to take, collecting contact information, following up, and tracking what actually leads to new members. The focus was on practical, free tools that any unit can use to make recruiting more organized and consistent.
At the September Membership Mixer, we will continue this conversation by focusing on the role of the Patrol Leaders’ Council in recruiting. Recruitment is not just an adult responsibility. When youth leaders are involved in planning activities, welcoming visitors, sharing what makes Scouting fun, and helping new families feel connected, recruiting becomes more authentic and more effective. Join us as we discuss how to connect the PLC, youth leadership, and unit recruiting efforts into one stronger membership plan.
This mixer is for Scouts BSA and Cub Scout leadership as well as youth leaders.
Date: September 29
Time: 7:30
Location: TBD
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A New, Simpler Renewal Cycle for All Members
Scouting America announced an important change at the National Annual Meeting that will simplify the membership and unit renewal process nationwide.
By February 2028, all members and all units will have a single, common renewal month of February.
This change is in response to feedback from unit leaders and other Scouters who asked for a simpler, more consistent renewal experience. We appreciate and value their input.
Key updates include:
- Beginning September 2026, all units due for renewal will renew to February 2028All memberships and unit charters will have a common renewal month of February by February 2028
o To simplify the process and in response to unit leaders' requests, Scouting America is returning to unit control of member renewals. If the unit does not renew a member, that member may renew themselves after the unit-only period closes
- The current 60-day grace period will end December 31, 2026
o Members renewing in November 2026 will still receive a 30-day grace period through December
o Members renewing in December 2026 must renew by December 31 to avoid being dropped
To support the transition during 2026:
- Beginning in September 2026, new and renewing units will use the standard charter fee plus a monthly pro-rata fee through February 2028
- No changes for new and renewing members through 2026
Additional information will be coming soon from Scouting America. This is a significant operational change designed to reduce complexity and create a more streamlined experience for volunteers, families, and councils alike.
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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.
Completed nominations are due to the council office by September 11. They may be submitted by email to Anna Marie Pepper or submitted to Washington Crossing Council, 1 Scout Way, Doylestown, PA 18901, Attention: Silver Beaver.
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Don't Get Rolled Over by Popcorn!
The Trail to Adventure begins with a successful popcorn sale! Join us for one of our 2026 Popcorn Kick-Offs to learn about this year's updates, new Waypoints incentive program, products, and resources that will help your unit reach its fundraising goals. Whether you're a first-time Popcorn Kernel or a seasoned veteran, you'll leave prepared for a successful sale. Stay ahead of your popcorn by attending a Kick-Off and setting your unit up for adventure!
Popcorn kick off dates:
July 23 - Mercer County Community College, West Windsor, NJ - 7 pm
July 30 - New Hope Solebury Upper Elementary School, New Hope, PA - 7pm
| | | Registration Opening Soon! | | There's Still Time for Summer Camp at Ockanickon! | | |
Summer camp is in full swing at Ockanickon, and the adventure isn't over yet! With one week of camp still remaining, there's still time for Scouts to experience everything camp has to offer.
Scouts from across the council are enjoying exciting outdoor adventures, earning merit badges, building friendships, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it's a Scout's first summer camp or a returning favorite, every week brings new opportunities for fun, growth, and adventure.
If your unit hasn't attended camp yet—or if you know a Scout who doesn't want to miss out—there's still time to join us.
Register today and be part of an unforgettable summer at Ockanickon!
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Venturing Camporee
"Shoots, Ladders and Paddles (SLP) III, is an event for Venturing Crews, Ships and Explorer Posts. Range and target activities, the climbing tower and the lake will be available. Participants can bring their own tents or use the adirondacks in a campsite. You will be sharing a campsite with other units. A communal Saturday dinner will be provided and we ask each unit to bring a dessert to share. Bring a game to play after dinner. This a great opportunity for recruitment."
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Chainsaw Work Days
August 8
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Campbuilder Days
September 19
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Click links below for more details and to register:
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BALOO - October 10-11
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IOLS - October 10-11
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NYLT - November 6-8 & November 20-22
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Click links below for more details and to register:
| | Come Visit us at the 26th Annual Peace Fair! | | 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
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Design Like A Girl - July 22 & August 17
- Trek Camp - August 16-21
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Sesame Place - September 7 through December 31
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2027 World Scout Jamboree
For more information regarding these events please refer to the Council newsletter.
| | Stay connected with the latest updates, events, and Scouting news — join us on Facebook! | |  | Looking for a previous newsletter? Archives are now included on our Council website. | | | | |
Supporting Mercer Area 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.
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District Committee Mtg.
September 9
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