January 15, 2025 | Greater LA Scouting, Scouting America | | |
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Navigating the LA Wildfires
On behalf of Greater LA Scouting and the Western Los Angeles Councils, we want to extend our heartfelt support to those impacted by the recent fires. While we recognize that not all of our community members have been affected, for those families who have experienced the loss of their home or displacement, we are here to help. If you or someone you know needs assistance during this difficult time, please reach out—we are committed to supporting you.
For those who would like to help, there are many ways to make a difference—whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or donating essential supplies.
Together, we can support our community on the road to recovery with strength and hope. For more information and available resources, visit Greater LA Scouting’s Wildfire Support page.
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Troop 131 Steps Up: Supporting Firefighters & Neighbors After Wildfires
When wildfires devastated Altadena and Pasadena on January 7-8, Troop 131 from St. Philip the Apostle Church wasted no time springing into action to help their community. Two Scouts lost their homes, and many others were living in the evacuation zone—but rather than stand by, they immediately put their Scout training to work.
The scouting community has a proud history of stepping up when needed and Troop 131’s quick response is a perfect example of the strength and heart that run deep in Scouting.
Assistant Scoutmasters Do Duong and Carlos Javalera organized two impactful service projects in the wake of the disaster. On January 9, more than 20 Scouts and parents came together to prepare 120 breakfast burritos for the firefighters working long, grueling shifts at the Rose Bowl. The food was delivered directly to fire crews who had been battling the flames, offering much-needed sustenance and support.
The very next day, Troop 131 turned their focus to their neighbors. With the area reeling from both the fires and 100-mph winds, the Scouts and their families worked tirelessly to clear debris from sidewalks, driveways, and yards—particularly for vulnerable members of their community, including retirees, a disabled woman, and a 90-year-old parishioner. In total, they cleared debris from six homes, filling over 70 garbage bags in the process.
“Words cannot express how thankful I am,” one grateful homeowner said to Senior Patrol Leader John J.
This incredible display of service is a testament to the power of Scouting. In the face of disaster, Troop 131 showed that Scouts are always ready to step up, serve, and support their neighbors—no matter the circumstances. Their quick thinking, teamwork, and dedication to helping others reflect the very core of Scouting and the values we hold dear.
We also know that many more Scouts across our community have been stepping up to help in similar ways, and we would love to hear and share your stories! Your acts of service inspire others and remind us all of the positive impact we can have. We encourage you to continue helping your neighbors and community as we all work together to recover and rebuild.
If your unit has a story to share about how you've helped during this challenging time, please send it to us here. Your efforts make a difference, and we want to celebrate the good you're doing!
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Important Update: Annual Dinner Postponed
We have made the difficult decision to postpone our annual dinner, originally scheduled for January 22nd. This allows us to focus all our efforts on addressing the current challenges in the LA area and ensuring all families can attend.
We are working hard to finalize a new date and expect to announce it within the next 10 days. Rest assured, any tickets already purchased will remain valid for the rescheduled event.
Thank you for your understanding and support. Stay tuned for updates!
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Eagle Scouts Shine in the 2025 Rose Parade: A Memorable Start to the Year
Reflecting on the start of the year, it’s hard to believe that just two weeks ago, January 1, marked the beginning of a fresh, hopeful new year. While it seems like ages ago, especially given the challenges we've faced with the devastating wildfires, we are reminded of the strength and resilience that defines our Scouting community.
The participation of 50 Eagle Scouts in the 2025 Rose Parade—an inspiring tradition in which Scouts from our Rose Bowl District proudly marched, embodying the values of leadership, service, and dedication. Their participation was a shining reminder of our positive start in the new year and the commitment our Scouts bring to their communities.
In light of the recent challenges, we look to those same qualities—the leadership, resilience, and service our Scouts represent—not only in the Rose Parade but in the countless acts of kindness they are showing in their communities, especially those impacted by the wildfires. The Scouts have once again proven that their spirit of service is unwavering, as many have already stepped up to help their neighbors in need.
A special thank you to our talented photographers, Bailey Shen and Keilin Liu, for capturing these unforgettable moments of the Rose Parade. Their work allows us to relive the joy and inspiration of that day, which feels even more meaningful as we face this difficult time together.
For those who couldn’t catch the live broadcast, don’t worry—you can still watch the parade and the Eagle Scouts’ inspiring march by following the link below.
Congratulations to all the Eagle Scouts who participated—your dedication continues to inspire us all. As we move forward through the rest of the year, we hold close to the values that our Scouts exemplify, finding hope and strength in their acts of service, both on the parade route and in their communities. Here’s to another year of growth, achievement, and, most importantly, service to others.
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Office Closed
Our office will be closed on Monday, January 20, 2025, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. We will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, January 21. Thank you for your understanding.
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Join the Build Character Program:
"How to Become a Successful Leader"
Monday, January 27 at 7 pm
Susan Griego will speak on "How to Become a Successful Leader in Today’s World" on January 27th! This one-hour interactive session is part of our Build Character Program, designed to help shape tomorrow’s leaders.
Event Details:
- Monday, January 27th at 7:00 pm
- Speaker: Susan Griego
- Time: 1 hour
- Format: Microsoft Teams
Monthly sessions cover life skills like:
- Time Management
- Money Management
- Landing Your First Job
- Workplace Success
- Self-Expression
Open to Explorers, Venturers, and Scouts aged 14+, the program empowers young people with the skills to build confidence and prepare for successful careers.
Join us on the last Monday of each month!
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Start the New Year at Winter Camp!
Get ready for a winter adventure at Hubert Eaton Scout Reservation! Whether you're a Cub Scout or Scouts BSA member, join us for outdoor fun, skill-building, and friendship this winter.
Cub Scouts: Enjoy winter-themed activities, wildlife exploration, and campfires with hot cocoa and stargazing.
Dates: January 10 – February 7, 2025.
Scouts BSA: Earn merit badges, develop skills, and enjoy winter activities in a beautiful setting. Evenings are filled with campfire camaraderie.
Dates: January 17 – February 21, 2025.
Pack your gear and make unforgettable memories this winter!
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Scout Sunday Emblems Now Available – Order Yours Today!
Scout Sunday, celebrated on February 5, 2025, is just around the corner, and special Scout Sunday emblems are now available for a limited time! These patches are a wonderful way to commemorate the day and show your pride in Scouting.
Why Do People Celebrate Scout Sunday?
Scout Sunday helps strengthen the bond between Scouting and faith communities. Many religious institutions support Scout units, recognizing the values and principles that Scouting instills in young people—such as leadership, service, and community involvement. It's a day to reflect on how Scouting complements and enhances our faith and values.
How to Order:
- Where: Available at the Arcadia or LA Scout Shop
- When: Pre-order now—these patches are only available for a limited time!
Contact the Scout Shops to reserve your patches today before they’re gone!
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Tuku’ut Lodge Annual Trade-O-Ree & Merit Badge Day
March 7-8, 2025
Join us for Tuku'ut Lodge’s Annual Trade-O-Ree & Merit Badge Day on March 8, 2025, hosted by the Greater Los Angeles Area Council’s Order of the Arrow Lodge.
Event Highlights:
- Trade-O-Ree & Auction (March 7-8): Explore Scouting memorabilia, meet fellow Scouts and Scouters, trade items, and bid on unique items in silent and live auctions. Proceeds support Tuku’ut Lodge’s service programs.
- Merit Badge Day (March 8): Earn badges in Collections, Scouting Heritage, Public Speaking, Fingerprinting, Citizenship in Society, and more. ILST will also be offered for NYLT participants.
- Lunch: Included for all participants.
Space is limited, so sign up now!
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