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Meet Our New Ranger at Ockanickon Scout Reservation...
Jim Donelson has served Scouting in a variety of roles, including Campmaster with the Patriots' Path Council and as a dedicated Scoutmaster. He brings extensive experience in facilities and camp maintenance, having worked in multiple maintenance positions at both a Girl Scout camp in western Pennsylvania and a Cub Scout camp in Virginia.
Jim and his wife, Evelyn Donelson, are excited to begin their next chapter with the Washington Crossing Council and look forward to contributing their time, skills, and passion for Scouting to the community.
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Reminder: Safeguarding Youth Refresher Training Has Launched
The new Safeguarding Youth Refresher Training has launched to help you renew this annual required training.
If you have completed the full Safeguarding Youth Training (SYT) course and it is currently active or has expired within the last 7 days, you are eligible to take the Refresher Training.
If your full SYT training has been expired for 7 days or more, you will need to complete the full Safeguarding Youth Course again before receiving credit.
If you have not taken the full 90-minute Safeguarding Youth Course, you must take that before taking the 20-minute refresher. If you take the 20-minute refresher but don’t take the full course, you will not get credit for SYT.
Participants taking the Refresher Training must successfully pass the exam on the first attempt to receive credit for the Y01 training code. If the exam is not passed, the system will automatically route you to the full Safeguarding Youth Course to ensure a complete review of the material. Once the refresher exam is failed, the refresher course cannot be relaunched, and the full course must be completed.
The Safeguarding Youth Refresher Training will be available in English and Spanish in the Volunteer Learn Center under the following course titles:
• Safeguarding Youth Refresher
• Curso de actualización SYT
Thank you for your continued commitment to safeguarding youth and helping ensure a safe environment for all.
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Membership
The next Member Coordinator (NMC) Mixer is scheculed for June 30. Location to be determined. This is a casual, working session designed to bring together New Member Coordinators and membership volunteers from across the council to share ideas, solve challenges, and strengthen unit-level growth strategies. These gatherings focus on practical takeaways, peer-to-peer learning, and reinforcing the council’s retention-first approach, while building a stronger network of leaders who are driving membership success at the unit level.
This mixer is a great opportunity to immerse prospective coordinators. If you are searching for your unit's NMC reach out to your District Membership Chair for guidance.
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Thank a Volunteer: Silver Beaver Award
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.
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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.
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Fish Camp - Last day to register is tomorrow, May 6!
Fish Camp is a Cub Scout family camping adventure for all Cub Scouts at Ockanickon Scout Reservation, May 8–10. Cubs and parents will learn fishing knots, build their own rods, discover local fish species, and enjoy time on the shores of Great Buck Lake—with all meals included for a worry-free weekend of fun and learning.
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2026 Ockanickon Cub Nights
Come and enjoy an evening of fun-filled activities and ice cream at Ockanickon Scout Reservation sponsored by Washington Crossing Council's Order of the Arrow Lodge, Ajapeu Lodge 2! Our theme this year is "America Through the Years" we will have U.S. history themed games and crafts.
There are 3 separate nights with each night having different activities. Participant check-in for each night will open at 7:00pm with activities wrapping up by 8:30pm. Ockanickon Scout Reservation is located at 5787 State Park Road in Pipersville, PA. We will be in the parking lot waiting to greet you and direct you to check-in.
Cub Nights are open to all Cub Scouts, siblings, and guests ages 5-11. As per Scouting America policy, please remember that all youth must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There is no fee for this event, however, we do need you to pre-register and provide information for everyone who will be attending the event by completing the form below. For more information, please email cubs@ajapeu2.org!
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Blue & Gold Placemats
Use the button below to order pre-printed placements for your unit's event. Link also has a PDF you can download to print your own.
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COPE & Climbing Weekends
The weekend COPE program offers the opportunity for your Troop, Crew, Ship or Post to experience a team building program like no other. Low COPE consists of warm-up activities and initiative games in the field before moving on to the Low COPE course. This course includes 12 elements low to the ground, ranging from the Archimedes Bridge to the 12-foot Wall. Adults are invited to participate.
High COPE returns to OSR Fall 2026!!
Registration opens 6 months in advance. Click link below for dates and registration.
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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.
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Positions available:
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Asst. Aquatics Director (minimum age 21)
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Aquatics Lake Director (minimum age 18)
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Aquatics Pool Director (minimum age 18)
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Aquatics Staff (minimum age 15)
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Office Manager (minimum age 18)
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Dan Beard First-year Program (minimum age 18)
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Maintenance & Trades Staff (minimum age 16)
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Civics Asst. Director (minimum age 18)
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Civics Staff (minimum age 15)
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Adventure Sports Asst. Director (minimum age 21)
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Adventure Sports Staff (minimum age 16)
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Dining Hall Steward (minimum age 16)
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OSR celebrates America 250
Custom t-shirt offer for units - paid orders are due by May 19!
Don’t miss your chance to be part of something special—this year’s exclusive 250th anniversary design is available to camp attendees and Washington Crossing Council units*!
This order form is for Custom & bulk T-shirt orders. Orders are to be placed by the unit and not individuals. Please collect fees from your Scouts and leaders who are purchasing a t-shirt and then place ONE order for your unit before the deadline. Don't place your order too soon and risk having latecomers change their mind.
*Units not attending camp can pick-up pre-paid t-shirt orders at the Scout Shop.
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Front: OSR logo
T-shirt Color choices: Heather Red, White and Carolina Blue
Fabric choices: Soft Cotton or Wicking
| | Back: 250th Anniversary design | | |
Trek Camp
Adventure Among the Pines
A Scouts BSA Pine Barren Adventure Camp
Kuweike means “among the pines” in the Lenne Lenape language. Kuweike Trek Camp is a specialty program that opens up the unique Pine Barrens habitat in South Jersey to Scouting!
The Pine Barrens is a special ecosystem in our back yard. There are things that grow and live only here. Explore New Jersey’s Pine Barrens while on a high adventure trek.
Test your Scout skills while Hiking, Cycling, and Canoeing through one of the country’s most unique habitats — and earn your 50 Miler Program Award!
Attend provisionally or with your Troop.
Dates: August 16 – 21
Location: Pine Tree Education and Environmental Center
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Greetings from Ajapeu Lodge 2
Ajapeu Lodge 2 had an outstanding and productive April, highlighted by a highly successful Induction Weekend where we proudly welcomed 64 new candidates into the Lodge. This milestone reflects the continued growth and strength of our lodge, and we are excited to see these new members begin their journey in the Order of the Arrow. Throughout the weekend, members demonstrated their commitment to cheerful service by dedicating time and effort to preparing camp for the upcoming summer season. The hard work completed will help ensure a great experience for all who attend camp this summer.
Looking ahead, there are many exciting opportunities to stay involved. Sign-ups for both the May Induction Weekend and Conclave are now live, and we encourage all members to take advantage of these events. Whether you are continuing your induction journey, supporting new candidates, or representing our lodge at Conclave, your participation helps keep our lodge active and thriving.
We are also looking forward to an exciting summer filled with 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.
For more information visit: https://www.wccscouting.org/content/133392/Cub-Night-at-Ockanickon
Cub Night Dates:
● Patriot Bash - Thursday, July 2
● Colonial America - Thursday, July 9
● Wild Wild West - Thursday, July 16
With a strong start to the season, Ajapeu Lodge is well on its way to another successful year!
| | Click links below to register for upcoming training courses. | | |
Chainsaw Work Days:
May 9
June 13
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Campbuilder Days:
May 16
June 20
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TOH Leadership
Reception
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Click images to enlarge
| | | SCOUTING BEYOND THE COUNCIL | | |
Scouting America Invites Youth Nationwide to Participate in “Scouts Read Sacred Texts” Event
Scouting America announced its continued support of Scouts Read Sacred Texts, a nationwide and worldwide event encouraging Scouts and their families to set aside time for reflective reading in conjunction with the 2026 National Day of Prayer, observed on May 7.
Developed by Scouting America’s National Religious Relationships Committee, Scouts Read Sacred Texts Invites Scouts to read a sacred or foundational text from their own faith tradition anytime between now and May 7. The initiative supports Scouting’s long standing emphasis on character development, literacy, and the Scout Oath’s commitment to “duty to God,” while fully respecting the personal beliefs and traditions of each Scout and family.
| | “The Scouts Read Sacred Texts event offers Scouts a meaningful opportunity to live out their duty to God,” explained Roger Krone, president & CEO of Scouting America. “By reading the sacred texts of their own faith traditions, Scouts join a shared experience with peers across communities and around the world – deepening their understanding while reflecting on enduring values. At its heart, the event encourages lifelong habits of reflection, respect, and growth.” | | |
Scout Days at the Philadelphia Zoo
Join us on Saturday, May 24! These spring Scout Days are open to all scouting organizations and not only includes access to our amazing animals, but you will also be able to hand-feed a variety of birds at Wings of the World, ride the SEPTA PZ Express Kiddie Train, and listen to our Keeper Chats. Scouts and their chaperones are encouraged to wear their uniforms to celebrate our Scouting Community. Reserve your spot through the Philadelphia Zoo.
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WWII Weekend - Unique Opportunity for Scout Troops!
The Mid Atlantic Air Museum in Reading, PA is offering our Troops an opportunity to attend this event for free including a free lunch in exchange for helping half a day at the event. What a great volunteer opportunity to fulfill service hours!
The event is being held June 5, 6, and 7.
This is an amazing event our Scouts would really enjoy! The Sign-Up Genius has all the details (scan below). Please contact Heidi Messner @ 484-336-3168 if you have any questions.
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One World Observatory, the observation deck atop One World Trade Center in New York City.
As we step into the new year, One World Trade Center is excited to announce booking is now open for the Architecture Merit Badge program—a unique opportunity for Scouts to explore architecture from one of the most iconic buildings in the world.
Led by certified NYC historian tour ambassadors, the experience blends breathtaking views with engaging, educational content tailored to meet merit badge requirements.
Program Details:
- Offered Saturdays & Sundays at 9am
- Maximum class sizes of 25–30 Scouts (larger groups can be accommodated with advance notice)
- Complimentary adult ticket for every 10 Scout tickets purchased
If interested in booking a trip for your troop, Contact Sean Villapol or call 212-602-4057 to reserve your spot!
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Scout Shop Hours:
- Monday -Thursday 10am to 6pm
- Friday - 10am to 3pm
Summer Hours Memorial Day through Labor Day:
- Monday - Closed
- Tuesday - Thursday 10am to 4pm
- Friday - 10am to 3pm
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Upcoming Special Closures:
- Tuesday, May 5 closing at 3pm
- Tuesday, May 19 for PA Primary Election
*Select Saturdays: 10am to 1pm
*Select Saturdays subject to change; please call before making the trip!
| | 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 under the blue Newsletter tab. | | |
Supporting Washington Crossing Council 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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